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Chemistry is everywhere, even in the movies. Look behind the scenes to see how science rather than “magic” produces spectacular effects.
Sections
Activities
- Why Wintergreen Lifesavers Spark in the Dark: Triboluminescence from ThoughtCo.
A simple and fun candy triboluminescence activity.
Demos
- Creating Light with Luminol from AACT
Observe a chemical reaction that releases energy in the form of light, demonstrating chemiluminescence. - Milk of Magnesia Magic from AACT
Observe a color change in milk of magnesia as vinegar is added. - Boiling Water & Liquid Nitrogen from AACT
A specific combination boiling water and liquid nitrogen forms a cloud as water vapor in the air condenses on the cold gaseous nitrogen. - Secret Message from AACT
Reveal a hidden message while understanding simple acid/base chemistry and indicators. - Dry Ice Color Show from Flinn Scientific
Dry ice and indicator solution are used to create a unexpected colorful show!
Labs
- Top Secret
from AACT
Make two types of invisible ink using homemade recipes. - Sandy Beaches—A Foray into ‘Magic’ Sand from AACT
Investigate the properties of magic sand and learn about the concept of hydrophobic and hydrophilic molecules. - Flame Test: Going Further from AACT
Investigate the colors produced when several mixtures of metallic ions are placed in a flame.
Articles
- Timeline of Special Effects Achievements
from PBS
Travel through time and see how special effects have changed over the years.
- Shakespearean Special Effects from Bard Stage
How did theaters awe their audiences with special effects hundreds of years ago?
- How Movie Make-up Artists Work
from How Stuff Works
Among the many responsibilities of a make-up artist for a film, includes researching and designing the right type of make-up to be used.
- Smoke and Fog from American Society of Cinematographers
Get it straight from people who use the effects to create their vision, with this article from a publication for cinematographers.
- Special Effects Artist from Berklee
Combine chemistry with many other areas to make a career out of effects and illusions.
- Five Things You Didn’t Know About Movie Pyrotechnics from Allegiant Fire
How did they do that?! Learn more about the fiery displays seen on-screen.
Videos
- Mind-blowing Movie Explosions Explained from ACS Reactions
Take a look at the science behind the big movie explosions.
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Using Properties of Matter for Special Effects from NBC News Learn
Learn how a special effects expert using changes in the properties of matter to create dramatic special effects, like fake snow, fog and even explosions.
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The Chemistry of Hollywood Fake Blood from ACS Reactions
Reactions loves Halloween so this year we’re giving you a historical, chemistry, rundown of fake blood, plus tips on how to make your own!