Sunday, January 13, 2013

A Fun Science Experience: Gravity Free Water!

 Jack loves science and conducting experiments.  One morning last week I presented Jack and Eve with their own bin full of water and gave them each some cups and pieces of cardboard.  After some water play time I showed Jack and Eve how they could defy gravity by keeping water inside of their cup even when turned upside down!

Here is how we did our gravity free water experiment:
1.  We filled a cup to the top with water.
2.  Next, we placed a piece of cardboard over the mouth of the cup - making sure no air bubbles escaped.
3.  We carefully turned our cup upside down while holding the cardboard piece in place.
4.  Finally, we took our hand away that was holding the cardboard and watched how the water stayed inside of the upside down cup -- defying gravity!

Jack LOVED this experiment and he did it over and over again for almost an hour.   Here is why this experiment works:  With no air inside of the glass, the air pressure from outside of the glass is greater than the pressure of the water inside the glass.  The extra air pressure holds the cardboard in place and keeps the water inside of the glass!

I really loved this experiment because it was simple and fun!  It was a great way to learn about air and air pressure. 

1 comment:

Mom to Rebecca, said...


How lucky and how wonderful it is that you are the Mama to such inquisitive and curious children, Rebecca!

Loving the way you provide such outstanding and thought-provoking days. Your kiddos will forever remember that you were a Mother that taught and loved at the same time. It's amazing! I'm learning from you, too.

Isn't that Jack just the cutest boy and Eve is so precious and Gracie Girl at school is a delight.

Love how you mother your children, Rebecca,
Mom

Got Gracie, Jack & Eve?