demonstrations:dry_ice_singing_spoon
Dry Ice Singing Spoon
Materials: ★★★ Requires materials not commonly found in school laboratories
Difficulty: ★☆☆ Can be easily done by most teenagers
Safety: ★★☆ Some safety precautions required to perform safely
Categories: Dry Ice
Alternative titles: Singing Spoon
Summary
When a spoon or other metal object is pressed against dry ice, it produces a loud singing or screeching sound. This occurs because the dry ice sublimates rapidly, causing vibrations between the metal and the carbon dioxide gas.
Procedure
- Place a block or chunk of dry ice on a safe, insulated surface.
- Hold a metal spoon (or other smooth metal object) by the handle.
- Firmly press the spoon against the dry ice surface.
- Listen for the high-pitched squealing or singing sound as the metal vibrates.
Links
Singing Spoon Easy Dry Ice Project - Anne Helmenstine:
📄 Science Notes: https://sciencenotes.org/singing-spoon-dry-ice-experiment/
Variations
- Use different metal objects such as forks, coins, or tongs to compare the pitch and tone.
- Experiment with pressing harder or lighter to change the loudness and frequency.
- Place the spoon flat versus on its edge to observe differences.
Safety Precautions
- Wear insulated gloves or use tongs when handling dry ice to prevent frostbite.
- Do not place dry ice directly on bare skin or in your mouth.
- Conduct the experiment in a well-ventilated area to avoid buildup of carbon dioxide gas.
- Keep dry ice away from sealed containers, as pressure buildup may cause an explosion.
- Students must not remove dry ice from the demonstration area.
Questions to Consider
- Why does the spoon make noise when pressed against dry ice?
- How does the sound change with different shapes or sizes of metal objects?
- What role does sublimation of dry ice play in this demonstration?