Chemistry is more than just combining two liquids and hoping to get a reaction. The study of biochemistry, plastics, changes in state and atomic structure have created many of today’s necessities. Find a topic that interests you, and find a chemistry connection. An automotive enthusiast could test a variety of motor oils to determine which reduces friction the most. A comparison of the properties of a variety of plastics and how they could be used to improve the safety of the car body is another option. Students interested in the environment could present a project on water purification technology.
Chemistry projects at a high school level may involve research rather than an actual experiment. Investigating the toxicity of substances such as silver amalgam tooth fillings is one example. Utilize the most recent findings available, and validate all resources. Personal interviews will add interest to any topic. Find additional information at local libraries. Verify any information from online sources by comparing with multiple sources. Be specific in any research project. Global warming is to broad a topic, but how the chemical reactions in a volcano and the gases produced impact global warming is specific enough to be researched.
Chemistry projects can be more fun to present when an actual demonstration is done. A study of the chemistry of a small explosion can provide an opportunity for an unusual demonstration. Utilizing trapped ethanol to shoot an object into the air should be done only with supervision. Standard experiments such as creating a volcano with the interaction of baking soda and vinegar can be expanded to illustrate several types of volcanoes. Videotape experiments that cannot be performed in the class. Some experiments should be performed outside to avoid possible problems. Adding chemicals to change the color of a flame could potentially set off fire alarms if the flame becomes too large or too much smoke is released.