YOUNGSTERS at Newton Abbot College were given an insight into chemistry by a professor and student from Plymouth University recently.

Second year chemistry undergraduate Will Rumble and associate professor Dr Mike Foulkes showed the inquisitive students how to use an infrared spectrometer.

They used the spectrometer to demonstrate how different types of chemicals can be analysed as a means to identify unknown compounds before taking part in a chemistry quiz.

Infrared spectroscopy is a characterisation tool used by chemists to help determine the molecular structure.

Year 13 chemistry student Emelia Cleverdon said: ‘It was a fantastic opportunity to be able to use such cutting edge technology.

‘This is something we would not have been able to do otherwise. This was the first time I had ever used a spectrometer and it was a great practical revision exercise that will definitely help benefit our studies.’

The special event was made possible through Plymouth University and the Royal Society of Chemistry whose funding has enabled students to access the high-tech equipment.

Associate professor Dr Foulkes added: ‘The students at the college have been really engaged.

‘The equipment used is worth in excess of £15,000 and is not something that is readily available in a secondary education environment.

‘The investigations today were linked to the A-Level syllabus. This opportunity to undertake problem solving will help in future examination questions.’