Making Comets in the Classroom

Posted April 17th, 2008 by admin

in

Authors

Source:

National Optical Astronomy Observatory
Comet recipe by Dennis Schatz
http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/educ/docs/Comet_Recipe.pdf
http://www.noao.edu/education/crecipe.html

NASA MESSENGER mission learning module for Grades 5-8 - Lesson 8 - Comets: Bringers of Life?
http://btc.montana.edu/messenger/teachers/MEMS_CompPlanetology.php

Deep Impact Mission Education
http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/deepimpact/educ/index.cfm

Make a comet representing the ingredients in a real comet. It is an exciting and relatively simple demonstration to do that leaves quite an impression on students. (MESSENGER and NOAO)

Make comets on a stick and comet ice cream. (Deep Impact activities)

Other information about this activity

Length of Activity:

will vary. can be done as a demo or as part of the MESSENGER or other lesson.

Can non-scientists successfully conduct this activity?:

Educator with subject matter knowledge

Non-science teacher

What level of help is needed to conduct?:

Training helpful

Materials are self-explanatory

Required Supplies:

Making a Comet:
dry ice (frozen carbon dioxide), organic material (corn syrup or cola), dirt or sand (I prefer dirt), ammonia.
Goggles and gloves. Hammer, bowl (one that won't crack easily), large spoon, garbage bags.

Access:

free download of pdfs

Notes and Suggestions:

Making a Comet:
Dry ice may be available at a local ice cream store. Check under 'ice' in the Yellow Pages.
The Schatz recipe says use day old ice, but I have always used fresh ice and it works. Be sure to smash it into fine or small pieces. Pay attention to safety - use goggles and gloves.

Material Type:

Binder

Web