How can we visualize molecular movement and correlate this with diffusion and osmosis? How does diffusion change with temperature? Once substances have diffused, do they ever separate? Students watch diffusion using food coloring and different temperatures of water. This is a great introductory lab before you begin to study diffusion and osmosis in more depth.

Concepts Addressed:
• Molecules are always in motion; this motion drives diffusion.
• Molecular motion changes with temperature; increasing temperature causes increased motion.
• Over time, two fluids will become completely mixed.

Materials Needed Clear cups, hot water, food coloring (optional: hard candy, milk, powdered drink mix)
 
Time Required This lab takes about 30 mins, but with extensions can take longer.
 
Student Sheets  Scaffolded writing prompts & lab reporting

Answer Keys and Teacher Notes address most questions and issues that might arise in this study—you shouldn’t have to do any outside research unless you want to.

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Connect with me: If you have questions or problems, please let me know and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.

 

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