Ice and Match trick

Today in science we did an experiment where you could hypothetically lift ice using a matchstick and salt. There were many fails and tries, due to the shape of the ice, what worked best are the flatter and more balanced ices some of the reasons are: if the ice is flatter and is more balanced the match would not fall that easily and it wouldn't wobble like a chicken. However, if the ice is not that balanced and is rounder it would have a harder time sticking to the ice.  It was a really challenging experiment but none the less it was very fun; I can't wait for the next experiment! Have a nice day, bye!

Ice Cold

You will need;

• A bowl of cold water
• A matchstick
• An ice cube
• Table salt

Instructions:

1. Place the ice cube carefully in the bowl of cold water
2. Gently place the match lengthwise on top of the ice and try to lift the ice cube
3. Put the matchstick back on the ice and sprinkle a little salt along the line where it touches the ice cube
4. Wait for 30 seconds and then attempt to pick up the ice cube again

What’s the science?

The science of this experiment is that first, ice and water have the same melting and freezing rate.

With that said, they will release energy this time it will be in form of heat.

Now, when you pour the salt on top and around the matchstick but now under it;

the ice will then refreeze trapping or freezing the match as well.

Extra for experts:

Why do we sprinkle salt on icy roads?

The reason for this is because the salt will lower the freezing point of the water but also will lower the melting point of the ice. We ice roads because so that the ice would melt quicker so that the roads will not be slippy and we would avoid more accidents.