Here are some simple clean water experiments that kids can do at home and learn useful science concepts. Also find kits that will teach the importance of water conservation and recycling.
Separating insoluble solids from liquids
You can separate insoluble solids from a liquid using methods such as:
- Sedimentation and Decantation
- Filtration
In Sedimentation, the insoluble solids are allowed to settle down and form a layer at the bottom, known as sediments.
After Sedimentation, Decantation is carried out in which liquid is carefully poured out without disturbing the sediments at the bottom.
For example, if you take sand water in a container, you can see that the sand particles will settle down in the container after some time forming a sediment. This is the process of Sedimentation.
Then you can pour the clear water in another container without disturbing the sand at the bottom. This is Decantation.
Filtration is another process in which liquid is passed through a filtering device which filters out the insoluble solids.To do this activity at home, you can use filter papers for filtration. Take muddy water in a container and filer it using filter paper which separates the mud from water.
The filter paper has tiny pores that allows water to pass through but does not allow mud particles to pass through.
Separating soluble solids from liquids
You can separate soluble substances from a liquid using methods such as: Distillation and Boiling.
Both these methods involves boiling, so this activity must only be performed by adults and in safe environment.
Distillation is used to separate two liquids that mix with one another. This method takes advantage of the concept that different liquids have different boiling points.
So once a liquid reaches its boiling point, it ill evaporate and separate out. Distillation is usually carried out using a special apparatus such as Liebig’s condenser.
Boling is used for separating soluble substances from a liquid, such as salt that s dissolved in water. This method uses concept such as evaporation and condensation.
You can carry out a small experiment at home to obtain salt and water from salt water.
- Add 1-2 tea spoons of saltwater in kettle.
- Heat the kettle.
- Hold a metal plate in front of the spout so that you can collect water through condensation of steam.
In some time, you can see that water gets separated and only salt is left behind in the kettle.
Also read: toys that teach waste management
Funtoyworld is a family-managed website with me (Ben), and my wife doing most of the work. We are proud parents of two wonderful kids and love reviewing toys. We have a firm but friendly “democratic parenting” style and offer several practical suggestions backed by extensive research. Our own experience with raising two children prompted us to share our knowledge. Read more.
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