Freezing Lakes

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In some parts of the world, lakes freeze during winter. In this activity learners will explore water’s unique properties of freezing and melting, and how these relate to density and temperature. Learners will use food coloring to investigate how hot, cold, and frozen water mix in this model. Step-by-step instructions are included with photos and safety recommendations. Activity guide includes a "What's going on?" explanation and relevant connections to the density of water and how organisms survive in a frozen lake.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - adult
Resource Types:
Activity, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Loaf pan-sized container, glass or clear plastic
  • Blue and red food coloring
  • Hot and cold water
  • Two drinking cups of equal size (approximately 250 – 500 mL (1-2 c)) that can hold hot and cold water
  • 12 blue ice cubes (made in advance using blue food coloring)
  • Container for holding and pouring water (such as a pitcher)
  • Spoon

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Processes
      • Weather and Climate
    • Earth Structure
      • Oceans and Water
      • Biosphere
    • Earth, Moon and Sun
      • Seasons
  • Life Sciences
    • Ecology
      • Ecosystems
  • Physical Sciences
    • States of Matter
      • Solids
      • Liquids
      • Changes of Phase

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Source Collection

  • DIY Science Apps

Rights:

  • , The Regents of the University of California, 2015

Funding Source:

  • National Science Foundation, DRL1114663