Mixed Oxides of Nitrogen: A Multicolored Cryogenic Demonstration

The mixed oxides of nitrogen (MON) are commonly referred to in general and high school chemistry curricula. We demonstrate here how to synthesize crystals of MON using a procedure that involves nothing more than immersing burning sparklers in liquid nitrogen. The demonstration displays results that are visually striking, unexpected, and colorful. It can be used to connect to a large number of topics, including measurement, the mole concept, chemical nomenclature, phase changes, chemical reactions, chemical thermodynamics, and environmental chemistry.