demonstrations:dry_ice_frozen_bubbles
Dry Ice Frozen Bubbles
Materials: ★★★ Requires materials not commonly found in school laboratories
Difficulty: ★★☆ Can be done by science teachers
Safety: ★★☆ Some safety precautions required to perform safely
Categories: Dry Ice
Alternative titles: Make Frozen Bubbles
Summary
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.
Procedure
- Put on gloves to handle dry ice safely.
- Place a chunk of dry ice into the bottom of a clear glass bowl or a cardboard box.
- Wait about five minutes for carbon dioxide gas to collect inside the container.
- Blow bubbles gently into the container so they fall into the carbon dioxide layer.
- Watch as bubbles float at the air–carbon dioxide boundary, then sink as they cool.
- Observe bubbles that touch the dry ice or sink to the bottom—they will freeze solid.
- Pick up frozen bubbles to examine them before they thaw and burst.
Links
Student Demonstrations Project - Sully Science:
📄 Make Frozen Bubbles - ThoughtCo.: https://www.thoughtco.com/frozen-bubbles-with-dry-eyes-project-602194
Variations
- Try using different bubble solutions (store-bought vs. homemade).
- Shine a flashlight or laser pointer on frozen bubbles to see color effects.
Safety Precautions
- 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.
Questions to Consider
- 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?