Extinguishing Candles With Carbon Dioxide
Preparation and Properties of Carbon Dioxide
Colorful Stalagmites: The Silicate Garden
Equilibrium Between Nitrogen Dioxide and Dinitrogen Tetroxide
A Simple, Vivid Demonstration of Selective Precipitation
Explosive Decomposition of Nitrogen Triiodide
Catalytic Oxidation of Ammonia
Leeching Lead Into Acidic Solution
Colorful Stalagmites: The Silicate Garden
Description: A “crystal garden” is formed using a solution of sodium silicate and colored salt crystals.
Source: Shakhashiri, B.Z. Chemical Demonstrations: A Handbook for Teachers of Chemistry
Year: 1989 Vol: 3 Page: 379
Ratings: 
Hazard: Some
- Skin corrosion hazard
- Serious eye damage
- Respiratory irritation
- Acute toxicity hazard
- Aquatic toxicity hazard
Effectiveness: Average
- Results are observable with guidance
- Mild effects are seen by audience
- Somewhat connected to course material
- Moderate failure rate
- Time to results is high
Difficulty: Medium
- Volume-dependent addition for proper results
- Simple procedures
- Requires attention to detail
- Some careful manipulations
- Prior training recommended
Safety Precautions:
- Eye protection required
- Gloves required
- Avoid exposure to droplets and solids
- Absorbent materials on hand
- Sodium bicarbonate on hand
- Prevent release of reagents to the environment
Class: Main Group Elements, Groups IV, V, IVB, and VB (14 and 15)
Division: General, Inorganic Chemistry
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