Supplies Scouts need to gather:

1)  Copper Sulfate

        -If possible, purchase jointly with other Scout families to reduce costs.

        -Can be purchased as “Instant Power Root Destroyer” from Home Depot for approx $10

        -Also available from multiple sources on the internet such as www.homesciencetools.com and www.Etsy.com

2)  3 inch or longer Iron nails (1 or 2)

3)  String – 12 inches

4)  Glass beaker – 250 ml

        -A small – medium sized mason jar is an acceptable substitute

5)  Pen cap

6)  Small amount of modeling clay or play doh

7)  Clear one liter soda bottle

8)  One Small – Medium Onion

9) 1 Tablespoon vegetable / cooking oil

10)  Safety glasses / goggles

11)  Dishwashing gloves or similar

Pre-requisites:

1. Scouts should get a copy of the latest printing of the Merit Badge Book and read it before the class.

2. Consider utilizing the Chemistry WORKSHEET to document you activities and information learned prior to clinic. 

3. Obtain Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for both a paint and an insecticide.  Available online or from a hardware store

4. Conduct the Onion Experiment

     a) Cut a round onion into small chunks. 

     b) Separate the onion chunks into three equal portions. 

     c) Leave the first portion raw. 

     d) Cook the second portion of onion chunks until the pieces are translucent. 

     e) Cook the third portion until the onions are caramelized, or brown in color. 

     f) Taste each type of onion. 

     g) Describe the taste of raw onion versus partially cooked onion versus caramelized onion. 

     h) Explain what happens to molecules in the onion during the cooking process. 

Class Schedule:

9:00 am - 3:00 pm

Follow-up Homework:

Requirement 7, if not completed prior to class