Welcome to the STEAM Lab at the West Wyandotte Library, where we explore science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics together. Did you ever dream of spelunking through a cave full of crystals? Or wonder how salt crystals grow? Join Ms. Jacqueline in the video below to try growing your own crystal garden at home! For this science experiment, you’ll need just five ingredients:
- A clear container with a lid
- Epsom salt
- Hot water
- Food coloring
- Rocks, pebbles, or sand
Follow the instructions in the video below to get started!
Try this: what happens if your water is warmer or colder? What happens when you freeze the jar for longer or don’t freeze it at all? Will you get more crystals if you leave your garden in the refrigerator for longer than overnight? How do your crystals look different if you use pebbles versus sand for your impurities?