Introduction

Scientists frequently talk about 'beauty' in their work, but rarely stop to think quite what they mean by it. What makes an experiment beautiful? Is it the clarity of the design? The elegance of the apparatus? The nature of the knowledge gained? There have been several recent attempts to identify 'beautiful' experiments in science, especially in physics. But Philip Ball argues that, not only is chemistry often neglected in these surveys, but it has its own special kinds of beauty, linked to the fact that it is a branch of science strongly tied to the art of making things: new molecules and materials, new smells and colours. He offers suggestions for ten particularly beautiful experiments in chemistry, taken from his recent book Elegant Solutions: Ten Beautiful Experiments in Chemistry. (There will be an opportunity to purchase signed copies after the event.)

Venue

University of Cambridge

Pfizer Lecture Theatre, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB2 1EW, United Kingdom

Useful links

• Venue information More information about the venue

Organised by

Society of Chemical Industry CaGE section

Contact information

Mr John O'Toole
51 Finchams Close, Linton, Cambridge, CB21 4ND, United Kingdom
01223 894174
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