purposeful play
Snowstorm in a Jar Science Experiment
winter stem activity for kids
The Snowstorm in a Jar Science Experiment is an incredibly fun, hands-on winter activity for kids.
This STEM activity is absolutely mesmerizing to watch and will keep your kiddos engaged and excited about learning this winter!
This experiment is a perfect book extension activity to pair with the beloved book The Snowy Day.
materials
purpose
Fascinating and hands-on way to explore science
Explores cause and effect
Hands-on way to explore density and polarity
Safe way to experiment with carbon dioxide
Screen-free fun
Shop this project!
directions
How to Make a
Snowstorm in a Jar
Fill a mason jar 3/4 full with baby oil
Add several drops of paint to 1/4 cup of water
Mix well
The water should be white
Pour the white water into the mason jar filled with baby oil
Observe what happens
Discuss with your child
Add iridescent glitter to the jar
Break an Alka-Seltzer tablet into 4 pieces
Drop one piece into the jar
Observe the reaction!
Ask your child to talk about what they see
Add in another piece of tablet
Continue to observe and discuss
Keep adding in more tablets one at a time
Continue as long your child is interested and engaged
Are you looking for more ways to keep your kids learning and engaged at home this Winter? Check out the Winter Printables Collection!
purposeful play
What is the Science Behind the
Snowstorm in a Jar Science Experiment?
After the white water and oil are added to the jar, the oil floats above the water because it is lighter than water (it has a lower density).
The water and oil do not ever mix because of polarity. Water is polar and oil is non-polar.
When the tablet is added and dissolves-a gas is created (carbon dioxide).
Carbon dioxide is lighter than water so it floats up to the surface bringing a bit of the white water with it. The white water travels through the baby oil in beads because the water and oil can not mix.
Once the gas bubble reaches the surface it breaks and the colored water floats back to the bottom of the jar!
