Non-Scientists Guide to Chemicals
Chemical name
Ethanol
Sodium ethanoate
Ethanoic acid
Hydrogen peroxide
Potassium iodide
Sodium hydrogen
carbonate
Sodium hydroxide
Hydrochloric acid
Sulphuric acid
Nitric acid
Copper(II) sulphate
Magnesium ribbon
Zinc strips
Copper turnings
Iron filings
Magnesium powder
Citric acid
Acidified potassium
manganate(VII)
solution
Propanone
Potassium
Permanganate
Other
names(uses)
Alcohol/methylated
spirit
Sodium acetate
Acetic acid (Vinegar)
(bleach)
Sodium bicarbonate
(found in baking
powder)
Caustic soda
(lemon juice
/cleaning)
State
Symbol/Formula
clear liquid
C2H6O
fine white powder
clear liquid
clear liquid (fridge)
white powder
white powder
NaCOOH(C2H3O2Na)
C2H4O2
H2O2
KI
NaHCO3
white crystals
clear liquid
clear liquid
clear liquid
Either a grey-white
powder or bright
blue crystals
silver strip
silver strip
copper filings
grey filings
grey powder
white powder
NaOH
HCl
H2SO4
HNO3
CuSO4
black crystals
K2MnO4
Acetone(Nail varnish clear liquid
remover)
purple liquid
Mg
Zn
Cu
Fe
Mg
C6H8O7
C3H6O
KMnO4
Please remember:
 All chemicals delivered, are safe when handled correctly, as advised in our Risk Assessments
and training.
 The chemicals delivered are of a weak concentration and children come across more
dangerous ones at home. The acids produced when vomiting are stronger than those
handled in school.
 Please ensure children/staff are wearing gloves and protective eyewear.
 Chemical listed above can be disposed of safely:
Liquids – pour down a sink or toilet with running water
Solids – Can be bagged and disposed of in general rubbish