Gases- Boyle’s Law and the Monster Marshmallow

Boyle’s Law and the Monster Marshmallow

Description: Place a marshmallow inside a bell-jar, and evacuate it. The marshmallow swells as the external pressure is reduced.

Source: Journal of Chemical Education Vol. 59

Year: 1982  Vol: 59  Page: 974

Keywords: Boyle’s Law, Marshmallow, Pressure, Bell jar, Vacuum

Rating:

Hazard:  Some

  • Implosion hazard
  • Electric shock hazard
  • Rotating machinery in use

Effectiveness:  Good

  • Results are clearly observable without guidance
  • Time to results is medium
  • Clear contrast between behavior of systems
  • Good connection from demo to course material
  • Moderate failure rate – fresh marshmallow required for performance

Difficulty:  Medium

  • Some concerted or timed manipulations
  • Demos at non-standard conditions
  • Manipulation of large glassware
  • Some sequential steps to results

Safety Precautions: 

  • Eye protection required
  • Use of UL approved three-prong plug and outlet
  • Lab coat recommended
  • Handle large glassware with care

Class: Gas Laws

Division: General