8th graders learn process of sublimation in earth science class

Ms. Feaver said observing dry ice — the solid form of carbon dioxide — is a great way of reviewing these phase changes. This experiment also introduced the concept of sublimation, which is when a solid transitions directly into a gas, skipping the liquid state. Dry ice is a readily available compound that allows students to see first-hand safely and easily how this transition takes place.

 

The students were instructed to observe how their pieces of dry ice reacted with water, soap, and metals including spoons and pennies. When adding soap, students got to see carbon dioxide form inside bubbles.

 

“The students obviously had a good time and the observations served as an excellent review and challenged them to think about concepts they know in a different way, which is always the idea,” Ms. Feaver said.