Consumer Science

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Sunscreens – Kemtec

The purpose of this experimental study is to determine the relative effectiveness of various commercial sunscreen lotions under laboratory conditions. The experiments can serve to interest students in scientific investigation of consumer products, serve... More.

Soda Pop Science Lab Investigation

An inquiry-based investigation of a familiar product. Take a close look at soda pop using an integrated science approach! Your students will test the physical properties and investigate the chemical composition of carbonated sodas. Then they’l... More.

Consumer Chemistry: Properties of Toothpaste

The history of teeth cleaning agents actually goes back thousands of years. Toothpaste as we know it today, however, is a comparatively recent development. In this activity, students will investigate several properties of toothpaste samples provided in ... More.

Consumer Chemistry: Properties of Soaps and Detergents

Though similar in function, soaps and detergents differ in chemistry and performance. Students will examine the similarities and differences in the properties of soap, hand dishwashing detergent, and machine dishwashing detergent, all provided in kit. A... More.

Consumer Chemistry: Properties of Antacids

With the global population spending over a half a billion dollars a year on commercial antacids, several companies are out there competing for a part of the business. In this activity, students will learn about some of the more common active components ... More.

Consumer Chemistry: Properties of Shampoo

Different shampoos are manufactured from a variety of ingredients to perform a variety of tasks. In this investigation, students will not only learn about the role of several shampoo ingredients, but also test several properties of different shampoos wh... More.

Consumer Chemistry: Properties of Aspirin

Since its initial purification and commercialization, several other painkillers have been introduced to the market. However, aspirin is to this day the most widely-used painkiller and largest selling non-prescription medicine in the world. Stude... More.

Consumer Chemistry: Science in the Kitchen

This comprehensive kit incorporates a variety of scientific techniques all themed around common kitchen materials. Students will perform chromatography on commercial food colors, use chemical tests to identify an unknown cooking ingredient, examine the ... More.