Comparing the Specific Heat of Metals I
Comparing the Specific Heat of Metals II
Paramagnetism of Transition Metal Salts
Computer NaCl Crystal Cleavage
Octahedral, Hexagonal, and Tetrahedral Shapes
Thermoluminescent Sodium Chloride
Jars of Sand Representing Electron Flow in a Band
Temperature Dependence on Resistance
Thermal Conductivity of Models
Glycerine Tube Representing Hole Emergencies
Counting Photons Using a Solar Cell
Effect of Pressure on the Melting Point of Ice
Synthesis of NiAl
Description: Bars containing the correct molar rations of Ni and Al are premade in a die. The pressed bar is placed on a fire brick and heated with a propane torch. Once the reaction starts, a bright orange flame travels the length of the bar.
This demonstration is also available on JCE Solid State Resources CD-Rom.
Source: Ellis, A. et al Teaching General Chemistry: A Material Science Companion
Year: 1993 Vol: N/A Page: 332
Keywords: Nickel, Aluminum, Orange flame
Rating: 
Hazard: High
- Burn hazard
- Fire hazard
- Acute toxicity hazard
- Burning metal
Effectiveness: Good
- Good connection from demo to course material
- Results are clearly observable without guidance
- Strong effects are seen by audience
- Good reliability
- Time to results is low
Difficulty: High
- Demos at non-standard conditions
- Use of toxic substances
- Use of flammable reagents
- Specific manipulation required
- Demos that require training or practice to perform safely
Safety Precautions:
- Eye protection required
- Gloves required
- Thermal gloves required
- Perform in well-ventilated area
- Perform on a fire resistant surface
- Do not perform on lectern bench surface
- Class D fire extinguisher on hand
Class: Solid State Chemistry
Division: Solid State Chemistry