Publications

"Did you eat a MOLEcule today?" An Interactive Demonstration of Molecular Weight with Real-Time Breath Analysis Using Mass Spectrometry for All Ages

Kustas, Jessica K.; Redline, Erica M.; Mowry, Curtis D.

Although mass spectrometry is a widely used analytical tool, age-appropriate, interactive outreach activities for laboratory visitors, especially children, are lacking. The presented interactive demonstration, "Did you eat a MOLEcule today?", introduces all ages to molecular weight concepts and mass spectrometry in a research laboratory, while connecting the concepts to real-world applications. Through real-time breath analysis, participants explore the concepts of molecular weight, electrostatic field manipulation of charged molecules, and analyte identification by mass analysis. This module is rapid and highly adaptable for outreach activities but also includes age- or classroom-appropriate variations to decrease or increase difficulty levels. The presented interactive demonstration has repeatedly been implemented, with over 2300 participants during six annual "Take Our Daughters & Sons to Work Day" and two corporate "Family Day" outreach activities, successfully engaging, exciting, and educating both kids and parents.