Small Groups
These activities will help students understand the concept of water condensation.
Teacher:
Per group:
The process by which water vapor turns into liquid water is called condensation. When warm, moisture-laden air is cooled, the water vapor in the air changes into its liquid state and forms water droplets. This is evident when water condenses on the cool surface of a mirror or window in a bathroom while you are taking a shower or when chilled car windows fog up on the inside. Condensation is generally associated with warm water vapor in contact with cold surfaces or other relatively cold solid particles.
1. Use science process and thinking skills
2. Manifest scientific attitudes and interests
3. Understand science concepts and principles
Pre-Assessment/Invitation to Learn
Instructional Procedures
Science-
Homework & Family Connections
Using the questions found on the backside of the student worksheet, you may lead an oral discussion or have the students work individually to explore the process that took place with their condensation chambers. Have students review appropriate scientific language as you discuss the appearance of the condensation chamber before and after placing it in a warm, sunny place. Listen for facts such as the concept of energy from the sun warming the chamber and causing evaporation to occur within it. At night the cool air outside the chamber will make the lid cool off and the water vapor will condense on the inside of the chamber. Condensation will most likely be more concentrated on the side facing the window. Ask students to explain why there was more condensation on the side of the lid facing the window - the temperature outside was colder and so the side facing the window cooled more than the side facing the heated room.