Chemistry: Rates and Reactions [F-23-10]

Chemical reactions are all around us, from the combustion that powers our cars to the metabolism that powers our bodies. Molecules and atoms, the tiny pieces that make up our world, are constantly moving, colliding, and transforming. But what makes some reactions fast and others slow? Why are diamonds so rare when coal is so abundant? What makes the difference between a stable fuel and an unstable explosive? We will look at the answers to these questions and others, while illustrating the chemical concepts with demonstrations and experiments.

Dr. Samuel Tartakoff is a professor at St. Lawrence University and received his PhD in organic chemistry from the University of California at Irvine. He teaches general and organic chemistry, as well as conducting research into new chemical reactions and potential new medicines. Other presenters include chemistry and biology students from St. Lawrence University, who will be leading portions of the discussion.

Special Instructions:

1. Please wear long pants and close-toed shoes.

2. The room has now been assigned: SLU Johnson 303.

Cap: 20