Source: Yasmin Patell, 785-532-, yasmin@k-state.edu
Pronouncer: Yasmin is Yazz-min and Patell is Pah-tell
News tip for: Manhattan
News release prepared by:Beth Bohn, 785-532-2535, bbohn@k-state.edu
Thursday, Oct. 13, 2011
Formula for fun and discovery: National Chemistry Week includes day of fun, hands-on activities Oct. 15 at Manhattan Town Center
MANHATTAN -- A week of fun and educational activities are planned in Manhattan to showcase how chemistry makes life better. The events are part of National Chemistry Week, Oct. 16-22, and are sponsored by Kansas State University's local section of the American Chemical Society and the department of chemistry.
The week kicks off with a free public event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, at the Manhattan Town Center. Kids can learn about chemistry hands-on by making slime, producing a gas from vinegar and baking soda, and getting a chemistry tattoo. Chemistry magic shows, presented by Alpha Chi Sigma, the professional chemistry fraternity, will be at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Free helium balloons also will be handed out. Chemists will supervise all activities, with safety and learning as the top priorities.
In addition, the public can find out more about chemistry at a chemistry book display available throughout the week at the Manhattan Public Library, 629 Poyntz Ave.
"National Chemistry Week is an annual community outreach program hosted by K-State's local section of the American Chemical Society, the world's largest scientific society," said Yasmin Patell, assistant teaching scholar in chemistry at K-State and a member of the society. "The week is designed to show how chemistry supports everyone and contributes to our quality of life and nation's economy."
The American Chemistry Society has a membership of more than 154,000 chemists and chemical engineers. The nonprofit organization was chartered by the U.S. Congress to help foster the public welfare, education and more. The society publishes scientific journals and databases, sponsors major research conferences and provides numerous resource materials to chemistry teachers and students.
