Your chemistry class is sure to love this experiment on column chromatography, as demonstrated with chalk sticks and felt tip markers. Pupils use sidewalk chalk (another inexpensive form of chalk stick) to demonstrate adsorption and the capillary effect. The results will amaze emerging chemists as this experiment is dependent on many factors, which are thoroughly discussed in the lesson plan.

 

 

 

 

Concepts

calcium carbonate, paper chromatography, alcohols, chalk, controlled experiments

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Additional Tags

science

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Classroom Considerations

• Make certain alcohol is disposed of properly
• Ensure safety protocols are taken during the entire experiment

Pros

• Common materials, such as chalk and felt tip markers, are used in the experiment

Cons

• Contains poisonous substances and must be conducted in a well-ventilated area
• Supervision is extremely important during the experiment

Common Core

WHST.9-10.1.a WHST.11-12.1.a