Merrily Made of Snow: The Winter Wonderland Icon
Last updated on June 30, 2025
In the spirit of winter science explorations, we present an intriguing experiment that allows children and adults alike to witness the fascinating phenomenon of frost formation. This captivating activity, named "Winter Snowstorm in a Jar," is a delightful addition to any winter-themed science project.
The Ice and Salt Experiment
To embark on this chilly adventure, gather a tin can, some crushed ice, water, salt, and an optional timer. Fill the can about half full with ice, add a little water, and a couple of tablespoons of salt.
The addition of salt to ice and water creates a supercooled mixture that can reach temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F), causing the metal can in contact to become colder than the surrounding air. This cold can drop below the dew point, leading to water vapor in the air freezing on the surface of the can as frost.
How It Works
The freezing point of water can be depressed by adding certain substances, such as salt, through a process called freezing point depression. When salt dissolves in ice-water, it interferes with the ability of water molecules to form ice, so the mixture remains liquid at temperatures below 0 °C. This creates an ice-salt-water slurry that can reach temperatures well below water’s normal freezing point.
When a metal can is placed in this very cold ice-salt-water mixture, the can's temperature drops rapidly, often below the air temperature and the dew point (the temperature at which air moisture condenses). Moisture in the surrounding air condenses onto the cold surface of the can. Because the can is below freezing temperature, the water vapor freezes as it contacts the can, forming visible frost.
Additional Ice Experiments and Christmas Science Investigations
For those eager to delve deeper into the world of ice and winter science, the article provides suggestions for additional ice experiments and Christmas science investigations. One such experiment is "Frosty the Snowman," where frost appears on a clean and empty tin can using ice, water, and salt. In this experiment, salt is added to lower the freezing point of the icy water mixture, allowing frost to form.
Emma Vanstone, the author of the article, has crafted a wealth of information and inspiration for those seeking to engage in winter science adventures. So, grab your tin cans, ice, salt, and water, and embark on a chilly journey of discovery!
- By following the Ice and Salt Experiment, kids can enjoy a science activity that demonstrates frost formation, named "Winter Snowstorm in a Jar," which is perfect for winter-themed science projects.
- This experiment shows how the addition of salt to ice and water creates a supercooled mixture, allowing the metal can to become colder than the surrounding air and form frost.
- For those who are interested in further exploring ice and winter science, the article suggests additional experiments like "Frosty the Snowman," where frost appears on a tin can using ice, water, and salt.
- By participating in these winter science adventures, children can engage in learning about health-and-wellness (by understanding the freezing point depression process), fitness-and-exercise (through the hands-on activity), and science (through inquiry and exploration).
