Alkali Collection (page 2)

Litmus solution added to alkali
Litmus solution being added to an alkali. Litmus is an indicator, a chemical that has a different colour depending on whether it is in an acidic or alkaline environment. In alkalis it is purple/blue

Lithium reacting with water. Lithium (Li) is a highly reactive metallic element that floats on water and reacts with it. This exothermic (heat- producing) reaction forms lithium hydroxide (LiOH)

Potassium burning in air. Potassium (K) is a soft, highly reactive, alkali metal. In air it will burn with a brilliant flame to form potassium dioxide (or potassium superoxide, KO2)

Sodium metal

Potassium metal. Freshly cut shiny surface of potassium metal. Potassium (K) is an alkali metal. It is soft enough to be cut with a knife

Lithium metal. Freshly cut shiny surfaces of lithium metal. Lithium (Li) is the lightest of the soft alkali metals. It can be cut with a knife

Sodium. Pieces of the reactive metallic element sodium (Na) stored under oil in a jar. This soft alkali metal reacts rapidly with the water and oxygen in the air

Magpie ink cap fungus (Coprinus picaceus). This fungus prefers alkaline soils. Photographed in woodland on the North Downs, Kent, UK, in October

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"Unleashing the Power of Alkali: A Journey through History and Innovation" Step back in time to 1886, where Crosfield's soap works in Warrington witnessed a remarkable reaction. Sodium, an alkali metal, fearlessly encountered water, creating a mesmerizing display of fizzing and sizzling. This captivating event marked the beginning of countless scientific breakthroughs. In this snapshot from the past, we see William Gossage captured in black and white photography. His pioneering spirit led him to explore the potential of alkalis at Crosfield's soap works. Alongside him stands John McClellan, immortalized through lithography for his contributions to this revolutionary field. Humphrey Davy's etching reminds us of his pivotal role as he unraveled the mysteries behind alkalis. His experiments paved the way for future discoveries that would shape industries around the world. Appleton Lodge emerges from another monochromatic photograph—a testament to how alkalis transformed not only science but also architecture itself. The law court building at Kano in Nigeria showcases how these innovations reached far beyond their birthplace—Warrington—to impact West Africa. The engraving featuring Humphrey Davy serves as a reminder that even great minds need inspiration. It was through collaboration and sharing knowledge that progress flourished. Henry Brunner appears before us in yet another black and white portrait—an embodiment of entrepreneurial spirit fused with scientific curiosity. He harnessed the power to revolutionize various industries worldwide. James Muspratt is depicted through lithography—a visionary who recognized how alkalis could be utilized on an industrial scale. Through his efforts, societies benefited from improved hygiene products and more efficient manufacturing processes. From sodium reacting with water at Crosfield's soap works to its transformative effects across continents, this journey highlights how alkali shaped our world over centuries past—and continues to do so today.