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  Home > JCE Print > Journal of Chemical Education > Issues > 1999  > November  >
In the Laboratory
Secondary School Chemistry
Lightstick Kinetics
Charles E. Roser
North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics, 1219 Broad Street, Durham, NC 27715

Catherine L. McCluskey
East Wake High School, 5101 Rolesville Road, Wendell, NC 27591

Cover
November 1999
Vol. 76 No. 11
p. 1514
Abstract
This experiment determines the energy of activation of the luminescent reaction in a lightstick by measuring the light intensity relative to temperature using Vernier light and temperature sensors, a Texas Instruments CBL interface, and a TI-82/83 graphing calculator. The light intensity and temperature are measured simultaneously with the light sensor in direct contact with the reaction test tube and the temperature sensor inserted directly in the reaction mixture. The test tube and sensors are supported in an easily manufactured wooden block. The data are stored in the calculator and the data analysis and graphing are completed on the calculator. The data can also be transferred to a computer for analysis and printing of the graphs. This procedure generates a high level of student interest and students develop an understanding of the relationship between temperature and the rate of reaction. The 10-min data collection time allows the experiment to fit high school class periods and several trials can be performed on the same sample. The experiment incorporates the use of technology, graphing, and data analysis. The graphical presentation of the relationship between light intensity and temperature may be sufficient for an introductory laboratory, while reserving the data analysis for an intermediate or advanced course. The directions can be easily modified to use computers and other graphing calculator probe systems.
Supplement
Notes for the instructor and a student handout including data sheets, explanatory material, and detailed instructions are available.
*  Contents
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More Information
*  Citation
 Roser, Charles E.; McCluskey, Catherine L. J. Chem. Educ. 1999 76 1514.
*  Keywords
 Introductory / High School Chemistry; Kinetics; Luminescence; Laboratory Instruction
*  History
 Created:
Last Updated:		 October 12, 1999
June 23, 2005
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