Can Crushers

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In this activity, learners conduct an experiment by heating an aluminum can filled with water to investigate air pressure. Learners will be amazed at what happens to the can at the end of the experiment. The activity page includes a fun how-to video for learners and educators.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
free per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Simulation
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Tablespoon of water
  • Empty aluminum can
  • Stove or hot plate
  • Bowl with cold water
  • Tongs

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Atmosphere
  • Physical Sciences
    • Heat and Thermodynamics
      • Heat and Temperature
      • Heat Transfer
    • States of Matter
      • Liquids
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Children's Museum of Houston, 2010

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