By Keith Hautala

(Oct. 21, 2014) — Trick or treat! The University of Kentucky is offering local children a sugar-coated chemistry lesson a full week before Halloween.

“The Sweet Side of Chemistry: Candy” is the theme of this year’s annual demonstration show, presented by the UK Department of Chemistry's graduate students at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, in Room 139 Chemistry/Physics Building. The show presents the students' favorite live chemistry demonstrations in a fun, easy-to-understand format, in celebration of National Chemistry Week, Oct. 19-25.

Families are encouraged to attend the event, which promises lots of kid appeal.  

“This event is a great way to share our enthusiasm for science with the people of Lexington” said UK Chemistry Professor Anne-Frances Miller. “They’ll come away with an understanding that chemistry is everywhere — not just in laboratories and textbooks, but in everyday things like a piece of candy. It turns out that making candy involves very robust physical chemistry, and consuming it engages important biochemistry. We have calorie-free treats too, colorful reactions, exciting showpieces as well as very visual demonstrations of principles children learn in elementary school all the way through high-school. There is something for everyone, including activities our audience can join us in demonstrating.”

For visitor parking information, cick here. (Please note that the Funkhouser Drive lot remains accessible from Rose Street at this time.)

For further information, please contact Catherine Denning at cadenning1@uky.edu.