Alpha science classroom： How to Make Water Jelly Crystals

Crystal is a naturally formed mineral, it flashing with a charming natural light, children also have a similar water jelly crystal in the daily life, that is polymer, they are common in our life, such as diapers, silicone and so on. They are composed of polymer. Today, Alpha Science Classroom teaches children how to make water jelly crystals through simple physical science experiments. Alpha science toys help children to learn about the scientific magic of polymers through a kid's science experiment.

Alpha science classroom: How to Make Water Jelly Crystals Need

• 1/2 gallon distilled water

• 1/2 oz. sodium polyacrylate

• 1-gallon pitcher or container

• Sieve or strainer

Alpha Science Class: How to make water jelly crystal steps

step 1

First, children fill a pitcher with 1/2 gallon of distilled water.

Step 2

Then, children add 1/2 ounce. Sodium polyacrylate to the pitcher. Sodium polyacrylate can be purchased in science supply stores or online.

Step 3

children let the mixture sit for at least six hours.

Step 4

children pour the resulting wet gel into the filter to remove excess water.

Step 5

children let the gel-like substance dry for at least two hours.

Step 6

Finally, children put the gel crystals in a glass vase and add flowers or candles.

Alpha science classroom: The scientific principles behind Water Jelly Crystals

The alpha science classroom tells the children that a polymer is a very long chain, composed of the same repeating molecules-they are the "links" in the chain. Think of these links as little sponges waiting to connect with water molecules. In the absence of water, the polymer chains are twisted very tightly and pile upon themselves, so the water connection points are tightly buried in the gold nugget. When water is available, the molecular links on the outside of the gold nugget grab it and hold it through simple cross-linking bonds. The more water is available, the more the polymer needs to relax to get it. Each link becomes larger as it connects to more and more water. The chains begin to expand on the outer surface, which allows more water to enter the polymer's further available link points. The water further crosslinks and the polymer expands to make room for it. If enough water is available, this combination and expansion will continue until there is no more available place to collect water. Absorption stopped, but the water connected to the polymer had swelled it to about 300 times its original weight, and there was no distortion at all. The crystal is now about 98% water and 2% polymer. This is a lot of water!

Polymers are very common and you see and use them every day: silk, wool, nylon, cotton, cellulose, protein, rubber, PVC, epoxy materials, silicone, conditioner, paint, polystyrene, adhesive Agent, gelatin, silly putty, polyester, Kevlar fiber, CD, glasses and so on, the list goes on!

The children's water jelly crystal is finished, then show this magical crystal to our families! Alpha Science Classroom hopes that through How to Make Water Jelly Crystals, this physical science experiment activity, children can understand the mystery and effect of polymers and the magic of children's science experiment and establish the exploration spirit of learning science. Children will grow up and be the best physicist.