Level 6
This material and the other described special effects are intended strictly for the use of chemistry or physics professors as science demonstrations. Under no circumstances should anyone attempt to purchase these materials, gather these materials, modify the quantities of chemicals indicated, or attempt to replicate any of these described special effects. Poor or nonexistent generally accepted lab procedure, the use of degraded or improperly labeled chemicals, can result in serious injury or death to any and all that are in proximity. Leave these procedures to the professionals. When these special-effects were published, in the early 1950's, the materials were easily obtained, since 9-11-01 any attempt to procure any of the indicated chemicals and associated materials may result in unwelcome (but perhaps justified) contacts from law enforcement from any number of agencies.
One hen, two ducks, three squawking geese, four limerick oysters, five corpulent porpoises, six pairs of Don Alvarzo's tweezers...
Phosphorus Explosion
Action: A vigorous explosion at the beginning of a chemical magic show puts the audience in the right mood for a series of mystery experiments. The explosion occurs back of the demonstration desk.
You Need:
potassium chlorate tablet - five grain
iron rod
yellow phosphorus -two grams
carbon disulfide - 10 ml.
ring stand base.
Why: Rapid oxidation of phosphorus in the presence of an oxidizing agent (chlorate) occurs with explosive violence.
How: Previous to the performance of the experiment you place a few drops of a solution of yellow phosphorus in carbon disulfide on a five-grain tablet of potassium chlorate which is resting on the base of a ring stand. In fifteen minutes the solvent will have evaporated and the tablet is ready to be exploded. Touched with a metal rod from a ring stand, the explosion is violent.
CAUTION: Cut yellow phosphorus under water. Handle with large forceps. On dissolving the phosphorus in carbon disulfide you have a very dangerous solution since a drop of this material is highly combustible. You may keep it in a small dropper bottle, which is kept inside of a larger glass-stoppered wide-mouthed bottle.
This experiment must be performed only by someone fully aware of the dangers in handling phosphorus or the solution.
Potassium chlorate tablets can be purchased from a chemical distributor. Do not bring the hands or feet near the tablet when it is ready to explode. Under no condition allow the solution to come in contact with the skin or any flammable material.