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How to Use Mag Sulfate to Make Crystals

A crystal is a solid in which the atoms, molecules or ions are arranged in a three-dimensional, repeating pattern. The word crystal comes from the Greek word "krustallos." The root is "kruos," which means "frost." Frost is made up of tiny ice crystals. Growing salt crystals is an easy activity that produces spectacular results. Magnesium sulfate (Epsom salt) is readily available from a pharmacy or grocery store; its crystals grow quickly in a normal household environment.

Things You'll Need

1/2 cup Epsom salt
1/2 cup very hot water
Wide, shallow bowl
Spoon
Deep, narrow bowl
Poker chip
Sponge

Instructions

- 1
  Place the Epsom salt and the hot water in a wide, shallow bowl. The water should be the hottest you can get from the faucet. If the water from your faucet is not very hot, microwave the water in the bowl before you add the Epsom salt. The water should be hot, but not boiling.
- 2
  Mix the solution with the spoon until all of the Epsom salt has dissolved in the water.
- 3
  Place the bowl containing the solution in the refrigerator. In three hours, a bed of needle-like magnesium sulfate crystals will have formed.
- 4
  Try this experiment again, using a deep, narrow bowl and you will see a different arrangement of magnesium sulfate crystals.
- 5
  Repeat the process again, this time putting a poker chip or piece of sponge in the bottom of the bowl. Put one or two grains of Epsom salt on the poker chip or sponge. Magnesium sulfate crystals are very fragile and can be difficult to handle. Growing the crystals on a poker chip or piece of sponge makes them easier to handle and display.

Rocks & Minerals