Changing States of Water - High Specific Heat

Changing States of Water – High Specific Heat

In this final video of the water series, Science Mom’s Guide to Water, Part 7 – High Specific Heat, we explore water changing states with five activities: evaporation sensation, water cycle in a jar, rain in a jar, water from dirt, and pop-proof balloon.

The concluding installment in the water series, a look at evaporative cooling, changes of state, and how water has an impressively high specific heat capacity. The ability of water to absorb a lot of heat before changing temperature is known as having a “high specific heat capacity.” This attribute of water regulates the temperature of our planet, helps us cool down when we sweat, and much more.

Parental supervision is recommended if repeating some of these experiments at home.

Journal Questions

In the video, Science Mom wrapped the ends of four thermometers in napkins. She left one napkin dry and wet the other napkins with oil, water, and rubbing alcohol. Which thermometer did you predict would have the largest drop in temperature? Which one actually had the most evaporative cooling? Why was that?
When Science Mom made a cloud in a 2 liter bottle what caused the water and rubbing alcohol to condense?
Why did the balloon filled with the most water take longer to pop?
If you tried any of these experiments on your own, what did you find?

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Topics

Grade Level

2-3

4-5

6-8

Creator

Science Mom

Engaging science activities for kids of all ages.

Materials

4 thermometers
napkins
oil
water
rubbing alcohol
fan
hot water
jar
ice
plate
bike pump
cork
2-liter bottle
shaving cream
cups
food coloring
shovel
tarp
bowl
balloons
candle
matches

Downloads

SMG7-8.5x11