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Science Sensory

Garbage Science Experiments

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Garbage can be fun to experiment with before it gets thrown away. I have two quick and easy garbage science experiments that your kids will love!

Garbage Science

Shrinking Chip Bag

The first one we did was a shrinking chip bag in the microwave. You use a small (single serving) empty chip bag to do this experiment. Just place it in the microwave for 5 seconds. There will be a few sparks, but tt won’t hurt your microwave!  When you open the microwave your bag will be tiny and hard.  It is pretty cool!  I have seen people use these to make a keychain.

Garbage Science Shrinking Chip Bags

It’s over and done in 5 seconds, but it is really neat to watch!

Crushing a Soda Can

The second garbage science experiment we did was crushing a soda can in a bowl of cold water. To do this you need a soda can, a bowl of cold icy water and some tongs.  Put a tablespoon of water in the can and place it directly on your stove burner. Bring it to a boil. Then grab the can with your tongs and flip it over into the icy water. The can will crush from the pressure.

Garbage Science Crushing a Can in Water

Here is a little video of what happens to the can when placed in the water:

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7 Comments

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Comments

  1. Theres Just One Mommy says

    August 9, 2014 at 7:55 am

    Always love finding new experiments to try! Pinned for the future!

    Reply
  2. Al says

    March 17, 2016 at 8:26 am

    This can’t be done in a school

    Reply
    • Karyn Tripp says

      March 18, 2016 at 7:13 am

      Nope probably not! We did it at home, though…

      Reply
    • Mother of Seven says

      July 10, 2016 at 11:06 am

      I agree, Al. And what exactly is the lesson taught in these activities?

      Reply
      • Patrick Lawson says

        January 16, 2020 at 5:53 am

        These experiments might be great to look at visually, however, I fail to see the underlying concepts being taught.

        Reply
    • Kristen says

      August 31, 2019 at 8:47 am

      I’m a science teacher, and I’ve done the soda can demo with my students many times — you just need a hot plate. It’s a great demonstration of how gases expand when heated, and the effects of air pressure! Students love it, and they really have to think to figure out WHY it happens!

      Reply
  3. Windy Brown says

    September 28, 2017 at 12:04 pm

    Today by my class did the shrinking chip bag at the last minute and we had so much fun. Thanks we enjoyed it!

    Reply

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Hi! I'm Karyn.
I am a former teacher turned homeschool mom of four kids. I LOVE teaching! I believe learning should be enjoyable and engaging. My goal is to ease the burdens of educators by offering memorable learning activities.
Questions? Contact me here: karyn@teachbesideme.com
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