Below the Surface: Surface Tension II

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In this activity learners explore surface tension. Why are certain objects able to float on the surface of water and how do detergents break the surface tension of water? Included in the lesson plan are several investigations, throughout each of which learners are encouraged to try changing variables in their experiments such as different liquids, different types or amounts of soap, or different temperatures and salinity of water. This activity can be used in conjunction with the "Breaking the Surface" activity found in the same educational resource.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • 1/2 liter water bottle
  • pie tin
  • index cards
  • boat template
  • liquid dish detergent
  • ruler
  • sponges
  • scissors
  • construction paper
  • aluminum foil
  • wax paper
  • cardboard
  • brown paper bag
  • printer/copy paper
  • sandpaper
  • wrapping paper
  • 9 oz clear plastic cup
  • ground black pepper
  • liquid dish detergent
  • electric teapot
  • bottles filled with other fluids
  • different types of soap
  • student journals and writing tools

Keywords

Subjects

  • Physical Sciences
    • Chemistry
      • Chemical Reactions
      • Solutions
    • States of Matter
      • Liquids
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Atomic Structure
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Asking Questions
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Source Collection

  • Science After School Consumer's Guide

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, State of New Jersey, 2006

Funding Source:

  • No Child Left Behind Act of 2001