Describes the use of a dramatic and enjoyable demonstration as the focus of a class discussion in electrochemistry. Advantages include building rapport with students, increasing the enjoyment of the learning experience for both instructor and student, and giving students a substantive basis for the lecture demonstration. (JRH)

In this demonstration of the generation and combustion of acetylene, calcium carbide and water are allowed to react in a latex examination glove. Two student volunteers perform the demonstration with instructor guidance. This safe, popular demonstration, originally intended to illustrate the alkyne family of compounds, can be used with a variety…