University Chemistry ›› 2025, Vol. 40 ›› Issue (6): 303-309.doi: 10.12461/PKU.DXHX202407110

• Chemistry Laboratory • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Colorful Chemistry in University: Exploring the Beauty of Transition Elements

Yuheng Zhou   

  1. The School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
  • Received:2024-07-25 Accepted:2025-02-24 Published:2025-06-20
  • Contact: ZHOU Yuheng E-mail:tanxishichao@126.com

Abstract: As a fundamental element of daily life, color embodies profound symbolic meanings and emotional resonance. Within chemical systems, chromatic manifestations arise from diverse substances including nanoparticles, organic dyes, and metal coordination complexes. While these materials may exhibit comparable hues, their underlying coloration mechanisms differ substantially in chemical principle. Through precision-controlled synthesis of three distinct inorganic pigments (cobalt blue, iron red, and cobalt yellow), this investigation systematically examines their optical characteristics using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and chromaticity analysis. The experimental protocol establishes an experiential framework that bridges theoretical concepts with practical applications, enabling undergraduate students to intuitively comprehend seemingly mundane chemical theories. This pedagogical approach demonstrates significant potential for enhancing student engagement and motivation in chemical education through tangible chromatic phenomena.

Key words: Color theory, Chemical synthesis, Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, Chromatic analysis