University of Liverpool Science staff inspires Cronton Chemistry Students

A level Chemistry students from Cronton Sixth Form were treated to a hands on “Spectroscopy in a Suitcase” programme, which was sponsored by the Royal Society of Chemistry and staffed by Dr Cate Cropper and two of her post-graduate demonstrators from the University of Liverpool.
Spectroscopy is the study of the interaction between electromagnetic radiation with matter. Dr Cropper, a specialist in the field, delivered a stimulating talk on the many different principals and applications of spectroscopic techniques in Chemistry.
This was followed up by experimental work which allowed the students to use cutting edge infra-red spectroscopy equipment to analyse chemicals. The students also took part in separate practical experiments which investigated food colourings in sweets.

The team spent a full day at the College, delivering four sessions to all A level chemistry students.
Chris Wright, Head of Chemistry at Cronton, said “The advantage of this programme is that our students get first-hand experience of handling equipment that costs thousands of pounds to install, and is currently used at the University of Liverpool Chemistry teaching laboratories.
“Many thanks to The University of Liverpool and the Royal Society of Chemistry for enabling this event to take place. We are also looking forward to establishing further links with the University department and using more of their equipment with our students in the future.”