In the age of social media, popular media influencers and the prioritization of view counts for 'shock value' and entertainment have made it increasingly difficult for trained scientists to accurately display their craft. Our demo engagements are usually met with the question can you make it explode?" As a Student Chapter committed to chemical education in the community, we quickly realized the need to address these misconceptions about what makes science fun. With every demonstration in recent years, our Student Chapter has reminded students that if something explodes in most sciences, that means the experiment has gone terribly wrong. We then explain to them what chemists should be looking for as a result of their experiments: measurable data and observations of phenomena. By explaining what a chemist is and what they actually do, students have a better understanding of what safety is and its importance in the chemical process. We also introduce them to the idea of 'necessary PPE' and explain how to tell what safety equipment is appropriate depending on the type of experiment being conducted. To further create a culture of safety for our own members, all demonstrations require the completion of a risk assessment and appropriate safety training.

Safety as a core value of the UM-Flint student chapter

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.