To fulfill its dual mission of fostering virtue through education and promoting public understanding of science, Luoyang Normal University invited Professor David G. Evans from Beijing University of Chemical Technology to deliver a popular science lecture and a series of experimental demonstrations under the theme “Chemistry Is Everywhere” on April 22, 2026. Nearly 400 faculty members and students from programs including the Master of Education, Chemistry Education and Science Education attended the event.
During the lecture, Professor David G. Evans explained in accessible language the pivotal role of chemistry in healthcare and medicine, modern agriculture, advanced materials and the information industry. He highlighted chemistry’s essential contribution to extending human life expectancy and improving quality of life, emphasizing that chemistry is deeply integrated into every aspect of daily life, including clothing, food, housing and transportation. Furthermore, it serves as a major driving force for social progress and high-quality development. He encouraged faculty members and students to actively communicate scientific knowledge, correct one-sided public perceptions of chemistry, foster a scientific and rational understanding of the discipline and contribute to improving scientific literacy among the general public.
Professor David G. Evans demonstrates the color-changing experiment, showcasing fascinating transformations in color and form
During the experimental demonstration session, Professor David G. Evans presented a series of engaging chemistry experiments. A color-changing Mirinda experiment demonstrated fascinating transformations in color and physical appearance, while the catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide provided a vivid illustration of the principles of catalysis. An iron-ion color reaction showcased the remarkable speed of chemical transformations and the reaction between magnesium powder and silver nitrate produced a spectacular mushroom-shaped cloud. An experiment involving an egg and hydrochloric acid further reinforced awareness of laboratory safety procedures. The demonstrations generated enthusiastic interaction and brought the atmosphere at the venue to a series of climactic moments.
The event represented an important step in the University’s efforts to promote the coordinated development of science popularization and scientific innovation. Building on this occasion, the school will continue to organize high-quality science outreach activities, foster a strong campus culture that values and respects science and cultivate highly qualified science educators equipped with scientific literacy, dedication to education and a strong sense of social responsibility. Through these efforts, it aims to contribute to China’s pursuit of greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology and to the advancement of Chinese modernization.
Professor David G. Evans demonstrates the catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide
Professor David G. Evans holds a doctoral degree from the University of Oxford and serves as an ambassador for science popularization in China. He is currently a Distinguished Professor at Beijing University of Chemical Technology and Director of its Science Popularization Experiment Center. He has received numerous honors, including the Chinese Government Friendship Award presented by the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs, the International Science and Technology Cooperation Award and recognition as one of the ten annual “2020 Beijing Role Models.”
Each year, Professor David G. Evans delivers more than 120 experimental science lectures at primary and secondary schools, science and technology museums, other venues in Beijing and in cities/counties across China, reaching an in-person audience of more than 60,000 people annually. Through “Dr. David’ Laboratory,” he has also produced and uploaded hundreds of chemistry popularization videos on short-video and new-media platforms. These videos have accumulated billions of views and his online channels have attracted more than 10 million followers.
Professor David G. Evans conducts an experimental demonstration