Details

The Science Behind It

This activity demonstrates the process of evaporation and crystallization. As the water in the solution evaporates, the dissolved Epsom salt is left behind, gradually forming crystals. These crystals are created when the water evaporates faster than the salt can dissolve, causing the salt to “stick together” and form small, distinct shapes. The temperature and amount of evaporation play a big role in how the crystals grow, warmer temperatures usually lead to faster evaporation and larger crystals. This experiment allows children to observe how materials change states and form patterns over time, just like frost forms when water vapor in the air cools and condenses into ice crystals.

Have a Chat

While making your crystal art, try talking about the science behind evaporation and crystallization:

• What do you think happens to the water when it evaporates? Why does the liquid disappear?
• How do you think the Epsom salt forms into crystals? What do crystals look like up close?
• Can you describe how the crystals look like frost? What other things in nature do you think are made of crystals?
• If we added glitter, how do you think that would change the way the crystals look when they dry?
• What happens if you try different patterns with the salt? Do the crystals form differently depending on how you place them?

Variations

• Add glitter to solution for extra sparkle
• Try different patterns: swirls, snowflakes, icicles
• Paint on black paper instead of windows