Make a Liquid Into a Solid
Matter exists in three basic states: solid, liquid, or gas. Try this science project to see how it is possible to change the state of a particular solution or compound using several methods, from very simple to extremely complicated.
Contents
Steps
Freezing
- Place a small open container of water in the freezer compartment of a class or home refrigerator.
- Leave the water there for several hours or overnight.
- Remove from the freezer and note what has occurred. Water changes state from liquid to solid when it reaches a temperature of 0 degrees Celsius, or 32 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a simple example of changing from liquid to solid, or freezing.
Crystallization
- Dissolve granular or table sugar into a jar of water until no more will dissolve (about one cup of sugar to one half cup water). You have created a solution. This is a combination of more than one compound.
- Place a piece of string in the solution, with one end taped to the rim of the jar.
- Put a lid on the container, and store it somewhere it will not be disturbed. After several weeks, you will find crystals growing and attaching themselves to the string, which is the process of crystallization.
Polymerization
- Purchase a small epoxy glue kit or a fiberglass repair kit. This activity should be supervised by an adult.
- Either discharge the epoxy mixing syringe or pour the fiberglass (polyester) resin into a can or other metal container, and mix the hardener (catalyst) thoroughly using a disposable utensil. In a few minutes, the liquid will begin to get warm, and depending on temperature and the product you are using, it should harden in less than an hour.
Evaporation
- Dissolve table salt in water. Several tablespoons of salt in about one fourth cup of water should work.
- Pour the solution into the shallowest container you can find and put it somewhere uncovered where it will be undisturbed for several days, preferably outdoors if the weather is sunny and warm. When the water has evaporated away, the salt will return to its solid state by a process called evaporation.
Tips
- Patience will help you succeed with these experiments.
Warnings
- Polyesters and epoxies are poisonous chemical compounds, read the instructions with the product you are using, and avoid contact with skin and avoid inhaling vapors.
Things You'll Need
- Suitable containers for each experiment.
- Chemicals (ingredients) for each experiment, including water, sugar, salt, epoxy glue like "4 minute epoxy" or fiberglass resin and catalyst.
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