Magic show, haunted lab part of chemistry open house

What do a magic show, a Harry Potter-themed room and a haunted laboratory have in common? They will all be events at the Chemistry Open house 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday in the Chemistry Building. \nFor nearly 10 years, the chemistry department has held an open house in honor of National Chemistry Week, chemistry professor Kim Arnold said. The open house is mostly aimed at families with children, but a few events might interest IU students as well, she said. \n“This is a way to get kids involved in chemistry,” Ellis said. \nThere will be two different chemistry demonstrations. They will be held at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. in the Chemistry Building Room 122 . The magic show is run by chemistry professor Dennis Peters, said Amanda Ellis, undergraduate student services coordinator. \nIn addition to the magic shows, hands on laboratory activities will allow kids to experiment with dry ice, as well as learn how to make slime, Arnold said. All activities are supervised by undergraduates, professors and faculty members in the chemistry department, Ellis said. \nKids who attend will also have the chance to experience a haunted laboratory. A Harry Potter-themed room will also be set up where fans can do different types of “magic” experiments. For example, in past years the department has hosted experiments where kids can learn how to turn a penny into gold or silver, Arnold said. \n“(The open house) provides free family entertainment and great chemistry,” Arnold said. “This is an exciting afternoon activity.” \nArnold said the point of the open house is to try to get children excited about chemistry.