Xanthe :) 

12/3/25: Paper Glider Competition

The paper "glider" we (Oliver, Jaydn, and I) used was made of paper, tape, and a straw. The paper plane was a regular plane (I think) but on the wing things there were some pieces of tape. In the centre of the plane in the little slit thing there was a straw.  We didn't win :(

26/2/25: Salts + Methylated Spirits

Equipment: 

• Bunsen Burner

• Heat proof mat

• Cotton Balls

• Methylated Spirits

• Various salts (part metal part non metal) such as lithium chloride, calcium chloride, etc

Method: 

1. Light the bunsen

2. Place the cotton ball in the [name of bowl thing]

3. Pour some methylated spirits on top of the cotton ball

4. Choose a salt and use a small spatula to lightly sprinkle the salt on top

5. Using some [tweezers?]  pick the cotton ball up and hold it over the flame of the bunsen

6. Watch the cotton ball's flame burn a cool colour because of the salts

Science Behind:

Methylated spirits burn at a high temperature. 

The salts produce different colours because of the electrons in the metal ions. Metal ions in salts have electrons that can be excited to higher energy levels when exposed to heat. As the electrons return to their original energy levels, they release energy in the form of light. Each metal ion has a characteristic wavelength of light it emits, which gives the flame a specific color.