Grade 5 | Physics | Heat Transformation

Water Condensation Experiment

Water is always moving through the water cycle. When water enters a warm air mass, such as air heated by the sun, it rises! When the water rises up into the atmosphere it collides with the much colder air at the top of our atmosphere. But that cold air is not able to hold as much water as warm air. This causes condensation to occur and eventually RAIN! This is what happened when we put the cold ice on top of the warm water. The warm, moist air in the jar condensed and formed water droplets or what kids can think of as rain once interacting with the cold ice!

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Description

Objective

Water is always moving through the water cycle. When water enters a warm air mass, such as air heated by the sun, it rises! When the water rises up into the atmosphere it collides with the much colder air at the top of our atmosphere. But that cold air is not able to hold as much water as warm air. This causes condensation to occur and eventually RAIN! This is what happened when we put the cold ice on top of the warm water. The warm, moist air in the jar condensed and formed water droplets or what kids can think of as rain once interacting with the cold ice!

Materials

Here’s what you’ll need: 

  1. Ice Cubes
  2. Hot Water
  3. Mason Jar or Glass Cup
  4. Plate

Some Questions To Prompt The Activity

  1. How do you think clouds form?
  2. What is condensation?
  3. Do you think the surface or way up in the sky is warmer?
  4. Can warm air or cold air hold more water?

Experiment Steps:

  1. Pour about 2 or 3 inches of hot water into a jar
  2. Quickly place a plate on top of the jar and let that sit for about 30 to 40 seconds.
  3. Take your ice cubes and place them on top of the plate.
  4. Watch the condensation form quickly and within a few minutes RAIN!

Science Explained

Water is always moving through the water cycle. When water enters a warm air mass, such as air heated by the sun, it rises! When the water rises up into the atmosphere it collides with the much colder air at the top of our atmosphere. But that cold air is not able to hold as much water as warm air. This causes condensation to occur and eventually RAIN! This is what happened when we put the cold ice on top of the warm water. The warm, moist air in the jar condensed and formed water droplets or what kids can think of as rain once interacting with the cold ice!

Disclaimer and Safety Precautions

Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state’s handbook of Science Safety.

Safety

  • Put on protective eyewear. Conduct the experiment on the plastic tray and in a well-ventilated area.
  • Keep a bowl of water nearby during the experiment.
  • Keep flammable materials and hair away from flame.
  • Avoid looking directly at burning magnesium to prevent eye discomfort.
  • Do not attempt to extinguish the solid fuel and magnesium — let them burn down completely. Do not touch the stove after the experiment — wait until it cools down.
General safety rules
  • Do not allow chemicals to come into contact with the eyes or mouth.
  • Keep young children, animals and those not wearing eye protection away from the experimental area.
  • Store this experimental set out of reach of children under 12 years of age.
  • Clean all equipment after use.
  • Make sure that all containers are fully closed and properly stored after use.
  • Ensure that all empty containers are disposed of properly.
  • Do not use any equipment which has not been supplied with the set or recommended in the instructions for use.
  • Do not replace foodstuffs in original container. Dispose of immediately.
General first aid information
  • In case of eye contact: Wash out eye with plenty of water, holding eye open if necessary. Seek immediate medical advice.
  • If swallowed: Wash out mouth with water, drink some fresh water. Do not induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical advice.
  • In case of inhalation: Remove person to fresh air.
  • In case of skin contact and burns: Wash affected area with plenty of water for at least 10 minutes.
  • In case of doubt, seek medical advice without delay. Take the chemical and its container with you.
  • In case of injury always seek medical advice.
Advice for supervising adults
  • The incorrect use of chemicals can cause injury and damage to health. Only carry out those experiments which are listed in the instructions.
  • This experimental set is for use only by children over 12 years.
  • Because children’s abilities vary so much, even within age groups, supervising adults should exercise discretion as to which experiments are suitable and safe for them. The instructions should enable supervisors to assess any experiment to establish its suitability for a particular child.
  • The supervising adult should discuss the warnings and safety information with the child or children before commencing the experiments. Particular attention should be paid to the safe handling of acids, alkalis and flammable liquids.
  • The area surrounding the experiment should be kept clear of any obstructions and away from the storage of food. It should be well lit and ventilated and close to a water supply. A solid table with a heat resistant top should be provided
  • Substances in non-reclosable packaging should be used up (completely) during the course of one experiment, i.e. after opening the package.

Disposal

Dispose of the reagents and solid waste together with household garbage.

Additional information

Subject

Chemistry, Mathematics

Materials Needed

# 3 12-inch long metal rods or thick wire: copper, steel, brass, or other metal.
# 8 identical Styrofoam cups
# Something to boil water in (a pot or kettle)
# Stove
# 4 instant digital thermometers
# Pitcher or other large container that will fit in the refrigerator
# Water
# Notebook and pen

Topic

Astronomy

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