What colors will different chemical compounds produce? You will need an adult to help you with this experiment, and you will have to perform the experiment extremely carefully so that the flames stay small and under control. In this science project, you will use a procedure that is similar to flame photometry or a flame test to observe the color of light produced when various metal compounds are burned. The beautiful colors of fireworks, like the ones shown here, are the result of atomic electrons emitting energy as light. These chemicals are various metal compounds that burn when the firework goes off, and burning the compounds is what makes the colors, like the ones shown in Figure 2.įigure 2. Have you ever watched a fireworks show and wondered how all the different colors-amazing reds, yellows, oranges, blues, purples, greens, and more-are made? The color, or colors, that a firework makes depends on what chemicals are in the firework. Not only can astronomers use this knowledge to figure out the atomic composition of distant stars, but it can also be used to create fireworks shows. Because different types of atoms have different gaps between their energy levels, they make light of different colors when their electrons lose energy. For visible light, we perceive these differences in photon energy as differences in the color of the light. The photon produced will have an energy equal to the difference between the electron's initial high energy state and the later lower-energy state. The lost energy can be carried away in the form of heat (vibrational energy) or in the form of light-when the electron reverts to a lower energy state, a photon of light is produced. (You can also see this in the animation in Figure 1.) Again, the electron moves from one allowed energy state to another. (Animation credits: Kurzon)Ītomic electrons at higher energy levels can also lose energy, dropping down to a lower energy level. When the electron loses energy (represented by the red arrow moving away from the electron), the electron moves to a lower energy level. When the electron gains energy (represented by the red arrow going toward the electron), the electron moves to a higher energy level. The black rings are different energy levels at which the electron can be. In this animation, the red circle represents an atom's nucleus and the blue circle is an electron orbiting around the atom. A bit of planning can save you from disappointment.Figure 1. If you won't have access to electricity, don't pick a project that requires an outlet. If you aren't allowed to use live animals, don't choose an animal project. Parents, teachers, and other students can help you fine-tune a science fair project idea. And a project involving seed germination may work better in the spring and summer (when seeds are fresh and sunlight is favorable) than in late autumn or winter. For example, while a crystal-growing project might work well under dry winter conditions, it might be hard to get crystals to grow during a humid rainy season. Also, some materials might not be readily available where you live. Great science doesn't have to cost a lot. Keep your budget and materials in mind.Many projects can be made simpler or more complex to fit your level. Don't discount an idea just because it doesn't seem to fit your educational level.A good rule of thumb is to choose an idea that takes less than half the total time you have. It's also possible that your experiment won't work out as planned, which would require you to develop an alternative project. Remember, it takes time to analyze data and prepare your report. Keep in mind how much time you have to complete the project, so don't select a science project that takes months to complete if you only have a few weeks.If you can, come up with five to 10 hypothesis statements and work with the one that makes the most sense. Write out your project idea in the form of a hypothesis as per the scientific method.Tips for Finding a Good Idea for Your Chemistry Project
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