• Question: I don't like lighting lit splints in science when doing experiments, is there anything you'd like to reasure me on? Thanks!

    Asked by jessstphils to Ed, Katie, Sam, Steve, Vera on 15 Jun 2011.
    • Photo: Katie Marriott

      Katie Marriott answered on 15 Jun 2011:

      Don’t worry!! As long as you are sensible there is no need to be worried. Just remember to make sure you have a long enough splint so you don’t burn your hand and that the people around you are also being sensible. It’s very important to make sure you are safe when doing experiments by doing things like wearing your safety goggles (even if they are uncomfortable! I have to wear mine all day sometimes), not running around the lab and following instructions carefully.

      The most important thing to remember is that the lit splint is going to light a bunsen burner which you will then be doing some exciting chemistry with!!

    • Photo: Steven Daly

      Steven Daly answered on 15 Jun 2011:

      I agree with Katie. The most important thing is to know exactly what you are going to be doing from when you light it to when you have lit the Bunsen burner. If you know exactly what you are doing, and have taken all the precautions, like safety glasses, lab coat, long splint, then you will be fine. Also be calm. Rushing things is when accidents happen.

    • Photo: Sam Tazzyman

      Sam Tazzyman answered on 15 Jun 2011:

      I can’t add anything to what has been said – Katie and Steven have much more experience with labs than me!

    • Photo: Vera Weisbecker

      Vera Weisbecker answered on 15 Jun 2011:

      Thanks Katie and Steven! I also never do the kind of experiments that requires lighting anything (sounds like fun though!).

    • Photo: Ed Morrison

      Ed Morrison answered on 15 Jun 2011:

      Just make sure you don’t do what someone in my class once did – turn the gas tap on (without a bunsen burner) then light it. It created a massive flamethrower in the classroom. Repeat – DO NOT TRY THIS.

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