Cloud in a Jar

Cloud in a Jar - STEM activity

Materials:

- A large glass jar or container with a lid
- Water
- Ice cubes
- Blue food coloring
- Shaving cream
- Glitter or small paper clips (optional)

Procedure:

1. Introduction: 

Explain that clouds are made of water vapor in the air and that we can create a mini-cloud in a jar.

2. Prepare the Jar: 

Fill the jar about 1/4 with water and add a few drops of blue food coloring.

3. Create the Cloud: 

Have the children spray shaving cream into the jar to create a "cloud."

4. Add Ice: 

Place an ice cube into the jar and quickly attach the lid.

5. Observe: 

Have the children observe what happens inside the jar as the ice cube melts.

6. Add Glitter (Optional): 

Sprinkle glitter or add small paper clips to the jar to represent rain or hail.

Tips and Variations:

1. Use a Variety of Containers: 

Experiment with different shapes and sizes of containers to see how they affect the cloud formation.

2. Add a Few Drops of Dish Soap: 

Adding a few drops of dish soap can help to create more condensation and a thicker cloud.

3. Create a Cloud Mobile: 

Have the children create a cloud mobile using paper plates, cotton balls, and string to represent clouds.