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Chemiluminescence--Luminol

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  • Page ID
    2976

    • Chemical Concept Demonstrated

    • Chemiluminescence

    Demonstration

    Solution A

    • Dissolve Na2CO3 in distilled water
    • Add luminol, NaHCO3, (NH4)2CO3, and CuSO4 * 5H20
    • Dilute with water

    Solution B

    • Dilute 3%H2O2 with distilled water

    Pour solutions A and B simultaneously into the funnel.


    Observations

    The entire spiral gives off a singular glow.

    Explanation

    Luminol is converted to a dianion in basic solution. This dianion is then oxidized with H2O2/Cu2+ to form N2 and an aminophthalate ion in an electronically excited state. In order to achieve an electronically unexcited state, the ion emits a photon of wavelength 424 nm.

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