CREATE A CLOUD IN A BOTTLE

Purpose:

• To determine conditions necessary for cloud formation.<

Grade Level/Subject/Class Time:

• 8th & 9th/Earth Science/One 40-50 minute period .

Applicable National Standards:

• Science, national and VA: Science: 4.6, 5.1, 6.1, ES.12, and ES.13

Key Words:

• Condensation nucleus

Materials:

• Canning jar with lid
• Screen
• matches
• ice
• water

Definition:

• A condensation nucleus is a solid surface upon which water droplets can cling.

Procedures:

1. Observe an empty, dry jar.
2. Fill a quart jar to within one inch of top with warm water and let sit for a minute with lid on jar.
3. Pour out most of water and observe.
4. Place screen on top with 2 to 3 ice cubes on top of screen and allow to stand one minute.
5. Light a match, blow it out and place it in jar and replace top. Observe.
6. Remove top and observe.
7. At what point was a cloud visible?
8. If time repeat using some other substance (condensation nuclei) in place of smoke. Ex. Chalk or salt.

Conclusion:

1. Write a paragraph summarizing conditions necessary for the formation of your cloud.
2. In a real weather situation what conditions cause clouds to form?

---

Lesson Plan developed by Carolyn Green, Educational Consultant for NASA's S'COOL Project, Last Updated: by Carolyn J. Green.