Organic chemistry?! What's that?! Organic chemistry deals with carbon and living things that are made of it, such as sugar, baking soda, and soap. It is easy to learn about this branch of science by doing some of the experiments in Robert Gardner's latest collection of science projects. Why is it important to cook certain foods? How does soap remove dirt? Many of the experiments can be done in the kitchen (since foods are organic) and only require some simple household objects and a curious mind. If you’re planning on competing in a science fair, this book will give you plenty of ideas and suggestions for further experiments.

Introduction

Chapter 1: Organic Chemistry in Your Life

1.1—Chromatography

1.2—Testing for Acids and Bases

1.3—A Teary Experiment

1.4—Acidic Effects on Other Items

1.5—Growing Crystals

Chapter 2: Compounds of Carbon

2.1—Molecular Models

2.2—Ionic and Covalent Bonds

2.3—Models of Other Organic Molecules

2.4—Alkenes and Alkynes

2.5—Isomers

Chapter 3: Polar and Nonpolar Compounds

3.1—Polar and Nonpolar Compounds

3.2—Polarity, Alcohols, and Organic Acids

3.3—Polarity, Solubility, and Density

3.4—Polarity, Soap, and Suds

3.5—Food Coloring, Water, Milk, and Soap

3.6—Cis-Trans Isomers

3.7—Polymers and Diapers

3.8—Polymers and Plastics

Chapter 4: Food: Organic Compounds

4.1—Testing for Carbohydrates

4.2—Heating Carbohydrates

4.3—Testing for Fat in Food

4.4—Testing for Proteins

4.5—A Catalyst for the Reaction of an Organic Compound

Chapter 5: Baking: Organic Chemistry in the Kitchen

5.1—Making Popovers: Using Air and Steam as Leavening Agents

5.2—Baking Soda as a Leavening Agent

5.3—Baking Powder as a Leavening Agent

5.4—The Same Recipe Using Different Leavening Agents

5.5—Yeast as a Leavening Agent

5.6—Testing Flours for Gluten Content

Answers

Science Supply Companies

Further Reading and Internet Addresses

Index

November/December 2004...

Books offering science projects, both for the budding chemist or for the science fair are always in demand. The two volumes reviewed would be a good addition to meeting that demand. Both devote the first chapter to the chemical makeup of the book’s topic, then move on to various experiments and projects moving from simple to complex. Both offer glossaries, indices, and further reading, as well as Web sites. Cartoon-like illustrations, and colorful covers also lend appeal to these books. Students will learn how they can make both slime and silly putty. This could provide middle schoolers entertainment for a rainy day. These books would be best used by average science students, and could help them explain the states of matter and polymers. During the time preceding the science fair, these books could be very valuable. Recommended.

April 2005...

This book opens with a simple explanation of organic chemistry and a discussion of the various materials that are needed for the projects that follow. Students are encouraged to build upon the 29 experiments presented and to develop their own inquiries. Ideas for further experimentation and a thorough discussion of safety rules and advice are included. The experiments become more complex as the book progresses. Some of them require materials available only from a school laboratory or a science supply company (a list is appended), such as maleic and fumaric acids and copper sulfate crystals. Simple black-and-white drawings complement the text, and illustrations of chemical structures help to demontrate reactions. A sound addition to science collections.

Robert Gardner is an award-winning author of science books for young people. A retired high school teacher of physics, chemistry, and physical science, he enjoys writing, biking, and doing volunteer work.