Source: Yasmin Patell, 785-532-2725, yasmin@k-state.edu
News tip: Manhattan
News release prepared by: Darrah Tinkler, 785-532-2535, media@k-state.edu
Thursday, Oct. 18, 2012
The magic of chemistry: Week celebrates contributions of chemistry
MANHATTAN -- National Chemistry Week is being celebrated in Manhattan from Oct. 21-27. During this week, events and educational activities will show how chemistry can impact lives in a positive way. Sponsoring the week is Kansas State University's local section of the American Chemical Society and the department of chemistry.
A free public event will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 20, at the Manhattan Town Center, 100 Poyntz Ave. A Chemistry Magic Show, presented by Alpha Chi Sigma, the professional chemistry fraternity, will be at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
Kids also will have the opportunity to learn chemistry through hands-on experiments. These include learning how to make slime, paper chromatography, producing a gas from vinegar and baking soda, sticking a needle through a balloon without popping it and getting chemistry tattoos. Chemists will supervise all activities with safety and learning as the top priorities.
"The mission of National Chemistry Week is to reach the public with positive messages about chemistry and its applications," said Yasmin Patell, assistant teaching scholar in chemistry at Kansas State University and a member of the American Chemical Society. "In particular, the goal is to reach students in elementary and secondary school and to boost public awareness of chemistry's contributions to society."
The American Chemical Society is the world's largest scientific society with a membership of more than 154,000 chemists and engineers. Chartered by the U.S. Congress, it is a nonprofit organization that helps foster the public's welfare, education and more. The society also publishes scientific journals and databases, sponsors major research conferences, and provides numerous resource materials for chemistry teachers and students.
