Health and medical
Chemical applications to biological problems are discussed by looking at the ways in which radiation damages DNA and how radiation and DNA damage can be detected.
The use of chemistry in hospital pathology labs is presented and some of the techniques used are explained.
Clinical biochemistry and its use in hospitals is explained. Students learn about diabetes mellitus, what blood sugar is, and how it is measured. They then try some of the tests for themselves.
The importance of analytical chemistry in the development and manufacture of protective gloves is demonstrated by looking at how the composition of a glove is determined, how any residual chemicals from the manufacturing process are identified and the physical properties of the finished glove.
Casualty simulation is important to help train the emergency services. The materials used to create fake injuries and wounds are demonstrated and samples are available for students to handle.
The ultraviolet radiation (UVR) protective properties of some samples of clothing, submitted by the students, are assessed by an expert from a group that provides information and advice on radiation. UV radiation can cause sunburn and has been linked to the formation of skin cancers.
Life-support and patient-monitoring equipment is demonstrated and the gas exchange in lung ventilation explained. Some students can check their own lung capacity.
Students participate in some physical activity to determine how fit they are.
