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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 2008  > August  >
In the Laboratory
Cost-Effective Teacher
An Updated Equilibrium Machine
Emeric Schultz
Department of Chemistry, Bloomsburg University, Bloomsburg, PA 17815
Cover
August 2008
Vol. 85 No. 8
p. 1131

Abstract
A device that can demonstrate equilibrium, kinetic, and thermodynamic concepts is described. The device consists of a leaf blower attached to a plastic container divided into two chambers by a barrier of variable size and form. Styrofoam balls can be exchanged across the barrier when the leaf blower is turned on and various air pressures are applied. Equilibrium can be approached from different distributions of balls in the container under different conditions. The Le Châtelier principle can be demonstrated. Kinetic concepts can be demonstrated by changing the nature of the barrier, either changing the height or by having various sized holes in the barrier. Thermodynamic concepts can be demonstrated by taping over some or all of the openings and restricting air flow into container on either side of the barrier.
More Information
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Citation
Schultz, Emeric. J. Chem. Educ. 2008, 85, 1131.
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Keywords
Analogies / Transfer; Curriculum; Demonstrations; Equilibrium; First-Year Undergraduate / General; Hands-On Learning / Manipulatives; High School / Introductory Chemistry; Inquiry-Based / Discovery Learning; Kinetics; Thermodynamics
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History
Created:
Last Updated:
6/23/2008
7/2/2008
 Caution! 
Experiments, laboratory exercises, lecture demonstrations, and other descriptions of the use of chemicals, apparatus, instruments, computers, and computer interfaces are presented in the Journal of Chemical Education as illustrative of new or improved ideas or concepts in chemistry instruction and are directed at qualified teachers. Although every effort is made to assure and encourage safe practices and safe use of chemicals, the Journal of Chemical Education cannot assume responsibility for uses made of its published materials. Many chemicals are hazardous. Precautions for the safe use of hazardous chemicals and directions for their proper disposal are described in the Material Safety Data Sheets and on the labels. We strongly urge all those planning to use materials from our pages to make choices and to develop procedures for laboratory and classroom safety in accordance with local needs and situations.
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