As if by Magic

The object of this lecture is to introduce chemistry as a fascinating science, which seeks to explain some “magical” changes when substances change into different substances. The talk illustrates many important aspects, both historical and contemporary, of chemistry and, to a lesser extent, physics.  It is illustrated with a wide variety of demonstrations which are presented in a lively and authoritative manner.   Expect some flashes, bangs, colour changes, and minor explosions! Dr Andrew Szydlo is a British chemist, chemistry teacher and performance chemist, whose multi-media approach receives much acclaim. Szydlo holds MSc, PhD, DIC, ACGI, and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, of which he is also a CChem. In 2020, Szydlo was awarded a Pearson National Teaching award for Lifetime Achievement. As well as being a celebrated author of several books, Szydlo frequently gives public lectures throughout the United Kingdom on topics including the History of Chemistry. A lively, multi-media approach characterises Szydlo’s performances, which include experiments drawn from a wide repertory, ranging from the chemistry of colour to pyrotechnics and high explosives.