KU News Release

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas will host the 14th annual Carnival of Chemistry from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22, in Malott Hall. This year’s theme is “Chemistry — It’s Elemental!”

John Meyers, a graduate student in chemistry, helps carnival attendees measure the electrical conductivity of electrolye-containing sports drinks.

Attendees will use nearly all of their senses as they explore the carnival: They can make slime, visit the popcorn room, hear explosions, operate solar panels, study the interplay between the frequency and wavelengths of light and much more.

This year, there are several new exhibits featuring chemical elements, which are organized and unified in the Periodic Table of the Elements, one of the most recognized icons in all of science. A popular exhibit from last year, Chemistry in Sports, will return. This exhibit highlights the chemistry of athletic equipment such as shock-absorbing sneakers and high-tech Olympic swimsuits.

More than 40 graduate and undergraduate student volunteers will be on hand to show the fun, interactive side of chemical science to attendees. The event is aimed at elementary-school children but is open to the public. There is no charge to attend.

The Carnival of Chemistry is sponsored by the Wakarusa Valley Local Section of the American Chemical Society, the KU Chem Club, the KU Society of Physics Students and the KU Department of Chemistry.