Science Projects Project Guides Ask An Expert Blog Science Careers Teachers Parents Students
Support for Science Buddies provided by:
All STEM Activities

Colorful Patterns in Melting Ice

Active Time
45 minutes to 1 hour
Total Project Time
Up to 1 day
Key Concepts
Ice, melting, freezing point depression
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FkKL7k6QwA

Introduction

Have you ever wondered why ice cubes in your cold drink become gradually smaller, or why their surface becomes smoother as they melt? Does ice always melt this way?

In this activity, you will use water balloons to create giant ice balls and observe how they melt. Can you predict the effect a bit of salt will have on your giant ice ball?

Credits

Sabine De Brabandere, PhD, Science Buddies
This activity is not appropriate for use as a science fair project. Good science fair projects have a stronger focus on controlling variables, taking accurate measurements, and analyzing data. To find a science fair project that is just right for you, browse our library of over 1,200 Science Fair Project Ideas or use the Topic Selection Wizard to get a personalized project recommendation.
Next: Materials

Materials

  • Water balloons
  • Water
  • Freezer
  • Oven mitt
  • Small plates
  • Cup
  • Table Salt
  • Water dropper or syringe
  • Food coloring, preferably liquid
  • Workspace that can get wet
  • Towel to wipe your workspace
  • Optional: Flash light
    Materials needed for to observe ice melt with salt as described in this science activity.
Next: Instructions

Reviews

|
Was this review helpful?
Report Inappropriate Comment
Be the first one to review this activity.
Active Time
45 minutes to 1 hour
Total Project Time
Up to 1 day
Key Concepts
Ice, melting, freezing point depression
Log In to Leave a Review

You can find this page online at: https://www.sciencebuddies.org/stem-activities/melt-ice-balls-salt

QR code

You may print and distribute up to 200 copies of this document annually, at no charge, for personal and classroom educational use. When printing this document, you may NOT modify it in any way. For any other use, please contact Science Buddies.