What’s the Matter?
An experiment demonstrating
the 3 stages of matter.
Michelle Garner
Laura Williams
Introduction to Physical Science
Ms. C. Dianne Phillips, Instructor
Introduction
There are three states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas; these three states of
matter can be shown by using a simple, but interesting science experiment. A
liquid has a definite volume, but no shape (examples include water, milk, and
soda). Gases have no definite shape or definite volume (examples include oxygen,
nitrogen, and carbon monoxide). When a liquid is frozen, it becomes a solid and
takes on a definite shape (ice cream, ice cubes, and snow). Liquid nitrogen is an
interesting example of a liquid that is very cold. When this liquid is exposed to
room temperature, it evaporates, warms up, and becomes a gas we cannot see.
Through this simple lesson and experiment, students will be able to witness
the transformation from a liquid to a solid and then to a gas. Please be aware of the
safety concerns when using liquid nitrogen and take appropriate measures to
ensure safety of both the participants as well as audience.
What’s The Matter?
Lesson Plan submitted by Michelle Garner and Laura Williams
Grade Level: 3-4
Introduction
There are three states of matter: solid, liquid, and gas; these three states of matter can be
shown by using a simple, but interesting science experiment. A liquid has a definite volume, but
no shape (examples include water, milk, and soda). Gases have no definite shape or definite
volume (examples include oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon monoxide). When a liquid is frozen, it
becomes a solid and takes on a definite shape (ice cream, ice cubes, and snow). Liquid nitrogen
is an interesting example of a liquid that is very cold. When this liquid is exposed to room
temperature, it evaporates, warms up, and becomes a gas we cannot see.
Through this simple lesson and experiment, students will be able to witness the
transformation from a liquid to a solid and then to a gas. Please be aware of the safety concerns
when using liquid nitrogen and take appropriate measures to ensure safety of both the
participants as well as audience.
I.
Objective(s):
Students will be able to name the three states of matter.
Students will be able to identify solids, liquids, and gases.
Students will be able to state the properties of the different states of
matter.
Students will be able to compare and contrast the properties of the
different states of matter.
Students demonstrate and apply knowledge using appropriate safety
procedures and technology.
II.
III.
Prerequisite Vocabulary
Gas
A fluid with no shape or volume that can expand indefinitely
Liquid
Something that is free flowing, takes the shape of its
container and has a definite volume
Solid
The solid state of matter is when the material has a definite
volume or size and distinct shape at a given temperature.
Nitrogen
A colorless, tasteless, odorless, gas element found in our
atmosphere.
Properties
The particular characteristics or traits of something
Materials:
Three Stainless Steel Bowls
Wire whisk
Dropper
Safety Goggles
Slotted metal Spoon
Insulated Gloves
Small serving cups and spoons
1 qt. heavy whipping cream
1 ½ quart half and half
1½ cup of sugar
5 teaspoons vanilla extract
5 liters liquid nitrogen
IV.
Procedures:
**WARNING!** Do NOT allow the liquid Nitrogen to touch any exposed body parts or
place it into any sealed containers. Also, be sure to use liquid nitrogen in a well
ventilated area.
In stainless steel bowl, mix well the heavy whipping cream, half and half,
sugar, and vanilla. Be sure to mix the ingredients with wire whisk until the
sugar has dissolved into the milk and cream.
While wearing safety goggles and gloves, pour some of the liquid nitrogen
into second stainless steel bowl. Take the dropper, and withdraw small
amounts of cream, releasing the droplets into the liquid nitrogen. You can see
the droplets bead up and transform from a liquid into a solid. Remove the dots
with a slotted spoon and place them into the third bowl. The “dots” can be
placed into a freezer to warm up. Eat and enjoy!
V.
Skills used:
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VI.
Hypothesizing
Observing
Noting Cause-and-Effect Relationships
Drawing Conclusions
Standards
PS.5.3.2
Demonstrate physical changes in matter.
PS.5.3.4
Compare and contrast solids and liquids.
NS.1.3.9
Apply lab safety rules as they relate to specific science lab
activities (see Arkansas Lab Safety Guide).
VII.
Conclusion and Evaluation
After concluding the experiment, students can discuss their
findings and observations, such as when matter changes from a
liquid into a solid. They will also be able to explain why the liquid
(which was room temperature) turned into a solid upon entering the
liquid nitrogen (which is 196 degrees below zero celcius, or 321
degreees below zero Farenheit). Because of the temperature of the
LN2, as it burns, or enters the atmosphere, it becomes a gas.
Ask students to describe liquid-to-gas transitions and gas-to-liquid
transitions. Have students share what they observed and learned
about liquid nitrogen and materials that become very cold. Review
what they observed from smashing things, doing activities and
making ice cream. Listen for evidence that they understand the
effect of cold temperature on materials.