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Make Colorful Crystals from Coal

Fifth Grade Earth & Space Science Activities: Make Colorful Crystals from Coal

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Your child is probably familiar with coal: it's those chalky black briquettes that cook up burgers and hot dogs on the open grill. But does he know that with a lot of pressure—and even more time—coal can be transformed into glittering diamonds?

You don't have to wait millions of years to turn coal into a beautiful gem. Watch coal turn into crystals right before your eyes! While you're at it, take time to explain how diamonds are formed: he'll be surprised to learn that natural material, such as peat, is compressed over years and years into carbon-rich coal, and then into crystals!

What You Need:

  • Adult helper
  • Measuring spoon
  • Liquid bluing
  • Laundry detergent
  • Iodized salt (table salt)
  • Small bottle of ammonia
  • Small jar
  • Plastic picnic spoon or old table spoon
  • 8 to 10 charcoal briquettes
  • Disposable pie tin
  • Food coloring
Show Instructions
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