Fun with combustible elements
It's year 8. I'm in a boys grammar school, and naturally enough, we are having a science lesson. This one is on the elements. Yawn.

Today though, is different. The teacher gathers us round to show us some raw elements. From a jar he produces a small piece of what looks like dirt.

"Now this class, is Phosphorus. It's fairly combustible, which means? Anyone?"

Everyone suddenly finds the floor or the ceiling very interesting indeed.

"It means it is volatile, and likely to catch fire when in contact with oxygen." Now we're listening. The arsonist in us all has started paying attention.

"To stop this, the element is usally kept in oil, but I've taken it out to show you."
"Ummm...Sir?"
"Yes, what is it?
"Why is it smoking?"

And with that, the little piece of phosporus catches fire. The teacher panics and drops it on the desk. The desk catches fire. The element bounces and hits the floor. The floor catches fire.

"I think you should all leave" The teacher says with a weary sigh
"Why sir?"
"The fumes are highly toxic, and this room is going to be full of them fairly soon"

We all run out, making the maximum amount of panic possible.

Best science lesson ever
(Urban Hermit Exit, pursued by a bear on, Fri 30 Jan 2009, 0:05, Reply)