Outreach
The Center for Synthetic Organic Electrochemistry is involved in a variety of outreach efforts.
Electrochemistry Experiments
We have developed fun and educational electrochemistry kits using easily obtainable items in order to engage audiences at various in-person events. These kits consist of three different experiment: the cola battery, the electrolysis of water, and the voltaic pile.
Cola Battery
The first experiment in the kits is the Cola Battery. In this experiment, a simple galvanic cell is constructed using cola as an electrolyte, a strip of copper, and a strip of zinc. Each galvanic cell produces about 1 volt of electricity. The voltage can be increased by linking multiple cells together in series. The current of the system can also be increased by connecting multiple cells in parallel.
Electrolysis of Water
The second experiment in kits is the Electrolysis of Water. In this experiment, carbon electrodes (pencil lead) is connected to a 9 volt battery. The carbon electrodes are then immersed in an electrolyte solution in order to separate the water in the solution producing Hydrogen and Oxygen gas. A pH indicator can also be added to monitor the production of H+ ions in the electrolyte solution.
Voltaic Piles
The final experiment in the kits is the construction of Voltaic Piles. In this experiment, small stacks consisting of a penny, a lemon juice soaked piece of construction paper, and a zinc washer are created. When the bottom of the penny and the top of the zinc washer are connected using a wire, a small electrical current is created. Multiple stacks can be stacked on top of each other to increase the voltage.
Electrosynthesis Experiments
We have also created engaging and educational electrosynthesis experiments to showcase the transformative potential of electrosynthesis.
Science Festivals
CSOE participates in multiple Science Festivals across the country.
Farmers' Markets
CSOE hosts outreach events at farmers markets in New York, Utah, California and Minnesota. Events are science-themed or focus on how to recycle batteries in the local area.
Unique Outreach Events
Dungeons and Dragons? Crochet? Dinosaurs? CSOE hosts a variety of unique outreach events.
Crochet Chemistry Patterns
Designed by CSOE graduate student Kristine Legaspi, an expert both in the lab and with a crochet hook, these chemistry-inspired patterns connect the worlds of crochet and chemistry. Kristine has both a passion for science and art, and her project brings chemistry to life in a whole new way.
Building Partnerships
CSOE was awarded an ACS Salute to Excellence in March 2024 for their support of the ACS Kids Zone and their commitment to improving the public's perception of chemistry.