| A recommended method for source reduction of pollutants is chemical substitution, in which hazardous materials are substituted for less hazardous materials. Here lab experiments and demonstrations were designed using household chemicals. The advantages include easy accessibility to low cost materials and minimal waste in comparison to traditional experiments. Students also showed more interest in performing experiments using familiar products.; A Handbook of Household Chemicals was created. Using chemicals in the Handbook, qualitative and quantitative experiments are described that only require simple equipment. In addition, chemicals are identified in a quantitative analysis experiment with applications for upper level classes. Experiments requiring the use of water condensers were modified using an ice cooled condenser. The condenser, developed in our laboratory, is useful for distillation and reflux experiments where running water is not practical. Finally, demonstrations were designed for an overhead projector to be used in large classrooms.; The experiments and demos can be used in any secondary school, college or university. The laboratory exercises can also accompany long distance learning and Internet chemistry courses. Several experiments using consumer products have been incorporated into the Pennsylvania Department of Education Science In Motion project. The program provides a van equipped with instruments and chemicals to be taken to local schools. Overall, the experiments discussed here provide a safe and low-cost alternative to traditional experiments. |
