National Chemistry Week at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

Fort Worth, TX (October 7, 2016) — Have you ever wondered what fruit juice and disappearing ink have in common? Chemistry! Hundreds of students and volunteers will soon converge on the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History to explore these concepts and more during Chemistry Connections: National Chemistry Week, Oct. 15 and 18-21. National Chemistry Week, created by the American Chemical Society, focuses on increasing awareness of chemistry in local communities around the country. This year’s theme, “Solving Mysteries Through Chemistry,” will take guests on a journey through the exciting elements of forensic science. Nearly 200 college student chemist volunteers from schools across North Texas will be on hand to assist young chemists as they delve into the mysteries of forensic chemistry. The students represent affiliate groups of the American Chemical Society at Texas Christian University, Southern Methodist University, Texas Wesleyan University, Texas Woman’s University, University of Dallas, University of North Texas, University of North Texas-Health Science Center, University of Texas at Arlington, Eastfield College and Tarrant County College. Volunteers from Birdville High School, Fort Worth Country Day, Lamar High School, Southwest Christian School, Trinity Valley School, STEAM Middle School and the Fort Worth Police Department will also share activities with Museum guests.

“There’s nothing better than bringing chemistry to life for students, and National Chemistry Week is the perfect opportunity for us to open the doors for everyone with an enthusiasm for science,” Museum President Van Romans said. “We truly appreciate the sponsors who support this initiative and understand the importance of engaging young minds in science as early as we can. By piquing children’s interest and encouraging them to explore the mysteries of science, the Alcon Foundation’s support of these events has an impact far beyond National Chemistry Week and what happens at this Museum.”

Chemistry Connections provides an opportunity like no other for young chemists to explore chemistry in a hands-on environment. During this activity-packed festival, guests will be presented with mysteries that can be solved through the use of chemistry. Here are just a few of the experiences you can expect during Chemistry Connections

• Be a dye detective and separate inks into patterns.
• Sniff out hidden scents and learn about diffusion.
• Experiment with writing secret messages … and learn about some fascinating reactions.
• Be a fruit juice sleuth and determine which beverages contain actual juice!

Educators receive free admission and can pick classroom ideas and resources for their curriculum around matter and chemistry concepts on Educators Day on Saturday, October 15, 10:00 am-12:00 pm. All Chemistry Connections activities are included in Museum exhibit admission.

Chemistry Connections: National Chemistry Week at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is sponsored locally by the Alcon Foundation.