Home >> Science & Nature >> Rocks & Minerals

How to Make Crystals Using Cups Water & Salt

Crystals are solid substances made up of atoms arranged in various three-dimensional patterns. Different substances have differing properties and shapes. For example, salt crystals have a cubic form. Growing crystals is a popular science experiment at school, but it is also a fun learning activity that parents and kids can do at home. With this tutorial, learn to make your own crystals by using simple items such as cups, water and salt.

Things You'll Need

Newspaper
Saucepan,
1 cup of water
½ cup table salt
Wooden spoon
2 small-sized cups
2 strings 6 inches in length
2 pencils

Instructions

- 1
  Cover a table with newspaper to protect it against accidental spills. Place the cup on it. The cup should be heatproof or able to hold hot liquids.
- 2
  Pour the water into the saucepan and place it on the stove over medium heat. Let the water come to a rolling boil and remove it from the heat.
- 3
  Add half of the hot water to each cup. Begin to slowly add the salt to each cup and stir with the spoon. Add about one teaspoon of salt at a time into each cup until no more salt dissolves in the water. Be sure to stir the mixture each time you add the salt to the cups. You have reached the saturation point when you see salt collect at the bottom of the cups.
- 4
  Tie a string to the center of each pencil. Place one string and pencil over the top of one cup and let the string hang in the mixture. Do the same with the second cup. Make sure the string does not touch the cup's bottom surface. Place the cups in a location where they can remain undisturbed for a few days.
- 5
  Wait 24 hours and check for crystal formation. You should observe some cube-shaped crystals if the solution was prepared correctly. Keep looking for new crystal formation each day as the water evaporates from the solution.

Rocks & Minerals