Simple Science Experiments?

Question

My really good freinds son, is doing a science fair project and he LOVES science, he was choosing some but the teachers said, Too "High Tech". I just need someting Easy,Simple,and Basic. Something he will ENJOY too!

Answer 1

Too high tech? That's crazy. If he's good, he should be allowed to do them.

Have a look at crystal experiments, they usually amaze people.

Making a crystal garden is always an eye catcher. Dissolve waterglass in water in a large jar or a small glass tank. Add a layer of sand on the bottom, then drop in some coloured crystals. Over a few hours, branch-like growths will appear. After leaving it for 24 hours, drain off the waterglass and replace with clean water, taking care not to damage the growths because they would redissolve.

Make a saturated solution of sodium acetate in hot water. Cool it in the fridge, making sure there is no solid left in the solution. Pour it into a container, and when ready, touch the surface. The crystals should form immediately, giving the appearance of the water freezing solid.

Colour-changing crystals are also fun. Cobalt chloride or copper sulphate are different colours when they are wet or dry.

Answer 2

Try one of these:

If he likes making things, make a volcano (he gets to make the volcano out of clay, color it, and add baking soda and vinegar to make it explode.)

If he likes acting like a scientist, have him grow plants with different color filters(the standard is beans inside red, yellow, and green transparent plastic.)

He can also demonstrate the Doppler effect using a fish tank and a paddle that strikes the water in a set rhythm (the waves get longer as they travel across the tank.)

None of these take much effort (other than growing plants or finding the parts) and can be done by fairly young children with basic scientific understanding.

Answer 3

Try a search for a 'homopolar' motor.  These are realy easy to build and the science behind how they work is a great starting point in learning.

They usualy consist of a battery, magnet and a piece of wire, nothing more.  There are some good videos on youtube.