Glass bottle from a Victorian toy chemistry set containing a white chemical substance
Image details
Contributor:
Tony Smith / Alamy Stock PhotoImage ID:
D8FBAKFile size:
37.2 MB (1.4 MB Compressed download)Releases:
Model - no | Property - noDo I need a release?Dimensions:
3474 x 3744 px | 29.4 x 31.7 cm | 11.6 x 12.5 inches | 300dpiDate taken:
7 February 2010Location:
United KingdomMore information:
Chemistry sets were educational toys allowing the user (typically a bored teenager) to perform simple chemistry experiments. In the United Kingdom, Thomas Salter Science produced a series of seven chemistry sets in the 1970s. mainstays in these sets were vials of chemicals, exotic labels, test tubes and cork stoppers, an instruction manual, litmus paper, safety goggles and a burner of some description. Amateur chemistry or home chemistry is the pursuit of chemistry as a private hobby. It should not be confused with clandestine chemistry, which involves the illicit production of controlled drugs. Throughout much of the 20th century, amateur chemistry was an unexceptional hobby, with high-quality chemistry sets readily available, and laboratory suppliers freely selling to hobbyists. For example, Linus Pauling had no difficulty in procuring potassium cyanide at the age of eleven. However, due to increasing concerns about terrorism, drugs and safety, suppliers became increasingly reluctant to sell to amateurs, and chemistry sets were steadily toned down.