Independence Day Chemistry

Ever wondered why some fireworks burst one color, while others explode and show a completely different color? What is responsible for this observation? Watch this video (shot this past summer) and also the video embedded below from "Science Friday". These will be good resources for answering the questions for your blog response.



If the video above doesn't work, try this link.

1. Why do some fireworks glow different colors?
   
2. What does this have to do with chemical composition, properties, and electrons?
   
3. (Optional) What are some of your experiences with July 4 Fireworks?
   

Static Electricity!

Below is a picture of Clara (about 2 years ago). She briefly turned her soccer goal into a fort/tent with a blanket on top, and (as you can see) some serious static electricity was produced!

After reading the short article AND contemplating some of your own experiences with static electricity, answer the following questions in a comment on this blog post:

1. What causes "Static Electricity"?
2. What does static electricity have to do with chemistry, atoms, and an atom's structure?

Drawing Ions

Want to know how to draw an ion of Oxygen? I thought you might. Let Imrann and Ben explain. (Sam is the illustrator.)