- This experiment helps teach kids about triboluminescence, which is the mechanical generation of light. Some chemical bonds generate light energy when the molecules are torn apart or crushed. Wintergreen Lifesaver candy contains these bonds, and students can create light energy by chewing on these candies. Have kids sit in a very dark room with a mirror until their eyes have adjusted and they can see their teeth in the mirror. Keeping their lips open so they can see their teeth, have them chew a single Wintergreen Lifesaver candy. When the Lifesaver is crushed, they will see a flash of light.
- This experiment demonstrates how tectonic plates move. Take one half of a graham cracker with a perforated line running through the middle, then break the cracker along the perforation. Place the broken edges together, then move the pieces in opposite directions against each other, observing the crumbs that form. This represents rocks breaking off along a fault line. Break one of the halves into two pieces, forming more jagged edges. Place the broken pieces next to each other, then move them in opposite directions as before. The two edges do not move as easily and when they do move, the jolt is sharper and large pieces of the cracker break. This represents the tension that builds up along a fault line, followed by an earthquake.
- This experiment demonstrates how water is drawn out through paper by capillary action and how inks separate at different rates because they move at different speeds. Cut out a circle of blotting paper approximately six inches in diameter. Place a Smartie in the center of the blotting paper. Dip your finger in some water and then hold it above the Smartie, allowing drips of water to fall on the candy. Continue until the Smartie is wet and a two-inch ring is visible around the edge of it on the blotting paper. Wait to watch different rings of color becoming visible on the blotting paper as the colors from the Smarties separate.
- This experiment makes a great start to projects on static charges. Take a handful of Rice Krispies cereal and place them on a non-metallic table surface. Put some wooden blocks, or another non-conductive material, on either side of the Rice Krispies, then balance a plate of Plexiglas on the blocks and over the Rice Krispies. Rub the top of the Plexiglas vigorously with a woolen sweater. The Rice Krispies will begin to stand on end, and then jump up from the table surface. Allow the students to take turns rubbing the Plexiglas and observing the Rice Krispies.