Iodine (I), from the Greek word for violet, ioeides, is a purple non-metal. While chemically similar to other halogens, iodine is the only one that is solid at standard conditions. Iodine is the heaviest biologically significant element in living organisms, playing a vital role in the thyroid gland in humans.

Elemental iodine can be easily prepared from potassium iodide, which can be found at pharmacies. I happen to live near the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station, and so I am able to get free pills delivered to me; thanks government.

Each 80mg tablet contains 65mg of potassium iodide, and some filler chalk. I crushed up 30 for about 2.4 grams. I then added water until the powder dissolved, and then an equal portion of hydrochloric acid. The solution should turn a bright yellow, but will turn red if left alone. The calcium should float to the top; skim it off or filter.

I then added five times the volume of hydrogen peroxide. The mixture was shaken, and left covered but not sealed for an hour. Some chlorine gas will be released.

I decanted the now clear yellow solution, leaving a dark layer behind.

Once dry you can test your iodine by pouring some aluminum or magnesium powder on it. It should dissolve quickly and produce purple smoke. A drop of water will ignite the reaction.