Sugar Tower

Quick Carbon Column.

 

 

 

Category - Chemical & Reactions

Key Idea - Combustion

 

Purpose - Shows the reaction of a strong acid on organic chemicals. 
Nature -  Demonstration
Materials -  Sugar, Beaker, 14M Sulphuric acid, Stirring rod, Bench Protector, Gloves
Method - 
  1. About one third fill a beaker with sugar.
  2. Stir in enough acid to wet all the sugar, and stir gently
  3. Note that the sugar quickly turns brown, then black.  Give it a few minute and you will find that the mixture starts to froth and a black carbon tower grow out of the beaker.
Safety -

14 M acid is very dangerous, and a great deal of care needs to be taken in it's handling.  The fumes given off are toxic so it is best not to breath in too much of it. A fume cupboard is the best idea, or out side on a breezy day.  

The beaker will become very hot from this demo and care should be taken.

A  solution of Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3 ) is a useful aid in case of an accidental acid spill.

Disposal of the resulting mess should involve the neutralization of the acid.
Explanation - At first the acid reacts with the sugar, producing a great deal of heat.  This heat also causes reactions in the sugar that release oxygen and water (which boils off), leaving mostly carbon behind.
Notes -