Laser Jello

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In this activity, learners use gelatin as a lens to investigate the properties of laser light. Learners can view total internal reflection of a beam of light and investigate angles of reflection and refraction. Using different colors of gelatin demonstrates its color filtering properties. Use this activity to help learners explore light reflection and refraction, wavelengths, color, and lenses.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
2 to 4 hours
Learning Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per student
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • D-shaped refraction or petri dishes
  • One red-colored and one blueberry package of Jello™
  • A laser (preferably HeNe), 2 recommended
  • Protractor
  • White piece of paper or waxed paper
  • Empty dish

Keywords

Subjects

  • Life Sciences
    • Human Senses and Perception
      • Vision
  • Mathematics
    • Geometry
      • Plane Geometry
  • Physical Sciences
    • Vibration and Waves
      • Wave Properties
    • Light and Optics
      • Lasers
      • Lenses and Mirrors
      • Electromagnetic Spectrum
      • Reflection and Refraction
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Informal Categories

  • Food and Cooking

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Strahm Black, Heidi

Rights:

Funding Sources:

  • National Science Foundation
  • California Department of Education
  • NEC Foundation of America