First-year chemistry students can readily prepare lotion from the emulsification of deionized water, humectant, emulsifier, emollients, thickener, and preservative. Three different lotion formulations are prepared so that students can study the effects of different emulsifiers and emollients on the quality of the final product. The purpose of the ingredients is discussed. The pH of the prepared lotions, commercial lotions, and the students' hands are measured. The students then compare the pHs to determine the appropriate lotions for their use. Students also learn how to identify the emulsion type for the prepared lotions and commercial lotions using several accepted methods: conductivity, fluorescence, and phase dilution.
Supplement
Instructions for the students and notes for the instructor are available.
The "Chemistry Teacher Connection" (CTC) is especially for high school chemistry teachers. For only $40/year, it offers an online-only subscription to CLIC along with membership in the Division of Chemical Education, normally $65/year. CTC subscribers receive access to all articles and supplements from 1996 through the current issue.
Through special arrangement with the ACS, JCE High School CLIC is now able to provide subscribers with online access to Chemical & Engineering News articles that have been selected specifically for secondary science instructors and their students.
Occasionally, collections of JCE back issues become available for donation to individual teachers, schools, or libraries. JCE matches collections with interested recipients. Recipients pay shipping costs or pick up the collection.