Dry Ice Frozen Bubbles

Blowing bubbles into a container with dry ice causes them to freeze solid. The bubbles can be picked up, examined, and will eventually thaw and pop as they warm.

1. Put on gloves to handle dry ice safely.
2. Place a chunk of dry ice into the bottom of a clear glass bowl or a cardboard box.
3. Wait about five minutes for carbon dioxide gas to collect inside the container.
4. Blow bubbles gently into the container so they fall into the carbon dioxide layer.
5. Watch as bubbles float at the air–carbon dioxide boundary, then sink as they cool.
6. Observe bubbles that touch the dry ice or sink to the bottom—they will freeze solid.
7. Pick up frozen bubbles to examine them before they thaw and burst.

Student Demonstrations Project - Sully Science:

📄 Make Frozen Bubbles - ThoughtCo.: https://www.thoughtco.com/frozen-bubbles-with-dry-eyes-project-602194

• Try using different bubble solutions (store-bought vs. homemade).
• Shine a flashlight or laser pointer on frozen bubbles to see color effects.

• Always wear gloves when handling dry ice to avoid frostbite.
• Use only under adult supervision.
• Do not touch dry ice directly with bare skin.
• Ensure good ventilation since carbon dioxide gas will accumulate in the container.
• Do not enclose dry ice in a sealed container.
• Students must not remove dry ice from the demonstration area.

• Why do bubbles float on carbon dioxide gas before sinking?
• What causes the bubbles to freeze when they touch the dry ice?
• Why do the colors of the bubbles change as they age?