Chemiluminescence of Luminol

During the course of certain chemical reactions, energy is released in the form of light in a process called chemiluminescence. In nature, this phenomenon can be observed in fireflies or lightening bugs. The commercial light sticks that glow in the dark are based on the same principle.

Materials

Solution A

• Anhydrous sodium carbonate, Na₂CO₃
• Distilled water
• Luminol (3-aminophthalhydrazine), C₈H₇O₂N₃
• Sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO₃
• Ammonium carbonate monohydrate, (NH₄)₂CO₃.H₂O
• Copper (II) sulfate pentahydrate, CuSO₄.5H₂O

Solution B

• Hydrogen peroxide, H₂O₂
• Erlenmeyer flasks
• Glass funnel
• Tygon tubing
• Ring stand with clamps

Procedure

In a darkened room, solutions A and B are poured simultaneously into a large glass funnel with a spiral delivery tube emptying into a large glass container. The mixed liquids emit a blue chemiluminescent glow as they flow through the tube and into the container. The glow persists for more than 2 minutes.

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Other Demos: Chemiluminescence of Luminol, Photoresists, High Energy Emitters for Organic Light-emitting Diodes, The Spectrum and Complementary Colors, "Titrations" with Dry Ice, The Red-White-Blue Clock

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