For more science experiments for kids, be sure to check out this rainbow walking water, these colour changing flowers, and this magic potion!
MORE easy science experiments
How do crystals grow?
Before we get to this crystal hearts Valentine science experiment, first let's talk about the science behind this... in other words, how do crystals grow?
Hot water is able to hold more Borax than cold water. This is because heated water molecules move further apart. The extra space allows the crystals to dissolve in the hot water. As the water cools, the water molecules move closer together again, which causes crystals to form.
How cool is that?!?!
Related: Valentine Activities for Kids
Valentine science experiment
Supplies for your Valentine science experiment
- 2 cups boiling water
- 6-8 tablespoons borax
- Dowel or craft stick
- Pipe cleaner
- String
Directions for your Valentine science experiment
STEP 1: Gather up your supplies
Before you get started, gather up all the supplies you need. This always makes activities LOADS easier!
STEP 2: Prepare your supplies
To get started, shape each pipe cleaner into a heart. For smaller hearts, cut the pipe cleaners in half and then shape them.
Once you've done that, tie a string to each pipe cleaner heart and then tie to a dowel or craft stick, as shown below.
STEP 3: Set up your Valentine science experiment
Next, pour the boiling water into a large cup or jug and add borax, 1 tablespoon at a time; stirring in between. Keep adding more until the water stops dissolving it.
Place the pipe cleaner hearts into the water mixture, resting the craft stick on top of the cup or jug. Make sure not to let the pipe cleaner touch the bottom or sides of the cup, or each other. This is to avoid them sticking together.
STEP 4: Watch and observe
Place the jug or cup in a place that won't be disturbed and let your heart pipe cleaners sit in the mixture overnight. Remove the crystal hearts from the water the next day to observe and see the crystals that have formed.
TIP: The water mixture can be used again! Just pour the water and the crystals inside the glass into a pan and bring the water to a boil. The crystals will dissolve into the water and you can place new shapes in the solution.
Once you have made crystal hearts why not have fun making crystals in other shapes and colours? You could even try to grow rainbow crystals!
We hope you enjoyed this fun Valentine science experiment for kids! Kids of all ages will be amazed at the crystal hearts that form. It's a great learning opportunity and such a cool science experiment to do. A great rainy day activity!!
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