Years ago I saw something on TV but I can't remember what they used to make this. It was a science show. I think it was called something like "Fun Science." Anyway, they poured two clear chemicals into a round glass container. Covered it then slowly mixed it by rocking the container. Suddenly the inside of the glass turned into a mirror finish. It ended up looking like a large Christmas ornament.

Does anyone happen to know what chemicals are used or where I might find information on this? I tried to search the web but I really didn't know what to search for.

Thanks.

Ron Jaxon

We aren't supposed to post this sort of thing directly here, but you can use a Google search for "Tollen's test" to answer your question.

Yours,

Paul

It's not an instantaneous reaction- it takes a couple of minutes to form the mirror-like finish and when you are done, you still have to clean up noxious and dangerous chemicals. A safer method would be to use the paddle move on a small hand mirror. It just so happens I have a double-sided hand mirror in my catalog...not that I'd dream of plugging my shop. As a penalty, I should tell you to check the Dollar stores first if you are interested in pursuing this more conventional approach to the same effect.

Instead of a rounded beaker could this be done in a flattened container shaped like a flask,,,,,looking like a mirror of sorts?

Thanks for the replies everyone and that is what I was looking for. I don't think I'll be able to use it for what I intended though because as already mentioned it's kind of dangerous. I'll just have to find another way to create the illusion I have in mind.

Thanks again.

Ron Jaxon