Hooked on Science: Salty cooler

Materials

• Salt
• Cooler
• Ice
• Water
• Digital thermometer

Instructions

• STEP 1: Fill the cooler halfway with ice and cold water. Describe the ice water using its observable properties. Using the thermometer, make measurements to identify the ice water based on its properties.
• STEP 2: Add one cup of salt to the ice water, mix and observe. Describe the ice water using its observable properties. Using the digital thermometer, make measurements to identify the ice water based on its properties. Did the water get colder after the salt was added?

Explanation

Once the salt is added, the water temperature drops. The salt lowers the freezing point of water. Basically, salt allows water to exist as a liquid below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or 0 degrees Celsius.