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How to Make an Experiment About Precipitation

Precipitation is a fundamental concept to address in elementary science classes. Although some teachers may happen to teach the topic on days when precipitation can be observed from classroom windows or the schoolyard in the form or rain or snow, weather usually does not consult an educator's lesson plan books. Fortunately, a simple in-class experiment replicates this critical phase in the water cycle and allows students to actively participate in the formation of precipitation.

Things You'll Need

Water
Pot
Quart-size canning jar
Aluminum roasting pan
Ice cubes
Match

Instructions

- 1
  Heat 2 cups of water on the stovetop until small bubbles form along the pot walls and floor. Remove from heat and pour into a canning jar.
- 2
  Center the canning jar in the aluminum pan and secure the jar lid. Fill the pan about halfway with ice cubes.
- 3
  Observe the effects within and around the jar for several minutes. Students should notice condensation forming on the outside of the glass jar near the bottom, and precipitation falling from the jar lid.
- 4
  Discuss the effects of temperature on the formation of precipitation. Also discuss how the jar lid simulates the conditions in a cloud that cause water droplets to accumulate.

Nature