The Tip of the Iceberg

Provided by: Universities Space Research Association |Published on: October 31, 2023

Activity - Classroom

2345

Scientist Reviewed ↗

Synopsis

In this experiment, students observe ice cubes in water to understand the buoyancy of ice in water, how chunks of ice can impact water levels, and the density of ice compared to water.
In addition to the experiment, students will review related concepts, analyze the experiment's results, record their findings in a journal, and have a post-experiment discussion about icebergs.

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Subjects: Science

Authors: Universities Space Research Association

Region: Global

Languages: English

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Teaching Materials

Positives

This experiment can be completed in one class period.
The required materials for this experiment are relatively easy to find.

Additional Prerequisites

Students need to have a basic grasp of fractions.
It's a good idea to do the Amazing Expanding Ice experiment before doing this one.

Differentiation

This experiment can fit within a larger unit on the distinct qualities of water and how these attributes manifest in the natural world.
To extend the experiment, teachers can encourage students to observe and record how melted ice impacts the containers' water level.
This experiment can support a classroom discussion on why icebergs are important for the environment.
This experiment can augment a classroom discussion on how melting icebergs impact global sea levels.

Scientist Notes

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Resource Type and Format

Scientist Reviewed

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The Tip of the Iceberg

Synopsis

Teaching Materials

Scientist Reviewed

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