Properties of Solutions- Color of Sunset: The Tyndall Effect

       Color of Sunset: The Tyndall Effect

Description: A light beam is passed through a suspension of small particles, made either by mixing acid and thiosulfate or by adding milk to water. The transmitted light is reddish in color, scattered light is bluish.

Source: Shakhashiri, B.Z. Chemical Demonstrations: A Handbook for Teachers of Chemistry

Year: 1989  Vol: 3  Page: 353

Keywords: Sols, Tyndall Effect, Sunset, Light-scattering

Rating:

Hazard: Some

  • Electric shock hazard
  • Skin corrosion hazard
  • Corrosive to metals
  • Inhalation hazard

Effectiveness: Good

  • Results are observable with guidance
  • Good connection from demo to course material
  • High reliability
  • Time to results is medium
  • Contrast between states is noticeable

Difficulty: Low

  • Simple procedures
  • Simple manipulations for most to perform
  • Demos in which a display is used

Safety Precautions:

  • Eye protection required
  • Gloves recommended
  • UL approved plug and three-prong outlet required
  • Absorbent material on hand
  • Perform in a well-ventilated area

Class: Properties of Solutions, Macromolecules and Solid State

Division: General, Physical Chemistry

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