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A Mad Science Holiday Poem

Plus a science experiment to try at home!

By Mad Science of Palm Beach December 4, 2019

A Mad Science Holiday Poem

T'was close to the holidays, not an idea to be had
what to buy the children, that would make them glad?
Something fun and educational, both at the same time,
something that might involve making ooey-gooey slime.

A gift of some sort that can be used in any way,
like for an afterschool program, camp, or party for their birthday.
I know, a Mad Science gift certificate that can be bought in any amount.
There are so many ways to use one, there's too many to count.

And don't forget the teachers, they love our programs too,
we'll go into their classroom and bring all the stuff for the children to do.
Our workshops help everyone prepare for the FSAs and more,
Pre-K to 5th graders love to experiment and explore!

For a limited time, we are giving a bonus to you,
order a gift certificate by December 18 and here's what we'll do.
We'll make the value of the certificate 15% more than you pay,
giving you more bang for your buck this holiday!

It's our way of saying thank you and paying it forward,
while giving your children the science education as the reward.
Your children will thank you and smile when they say,
I want more "Mad Science" today and every day!

At Home Science Fun

FREEZE FISHING

What you will need:  

  • Ice cube
  • Salt
  • String, about 15cm (6") long  
  • Plate

What you do:

Step 1: Wet an ice cube and put it on the plate.

Step 2: Wet the string and place it across the top of the ice cube.

Step 3: Sprinkle a little bit of salt on top of the ice cube and the string.

Step 4: Count to five and lift the loose end of the string. The ice cube should come with it!

What's going on?

When salt is added to water, it lowers its temperature. Sometimes you will see salt being put on icy roads. The salt helps the ice on the road melt because it drops the freezing point of the water. The string absorbs water and there is water on the surface of the ice cube because you rinsed it. If you add salt, it causes the water to re-freeze on the ice cube.

Now try this: Try this experiment with other types of string such as shoelaces or sewing thread. Is there a difference? Which one lets you lift the ice cube the highest off the plate? Let us know in the Comments section below!