How to Make Frost On A Can Winter Science Experiment for Kids

We can show you how to make it frosty inside even when it’s not outside! Whether you have freezing cold temperatures keeping you inside or too hot temperatures outside, you can still enjoy some simple winter science. The best part, you can enjoy it indoors! Learn how to make frost on a can for an easy science activity you can share with the kids

LEARN HOW TO MAKE FROST ON A CAN FOR EASY KID’S SCIENCE!

Although we live in a wintery climate, we have either had freezing cold temperatures keeping us indoors or a blizzard! There’s only so much screen time I can handle as a parent, so it’s great to have simple science activities one hand to pass the time. Make sure to check out our winter snow storm in a jar too!

This is another easy to set up winter science experiment that pulls from what you have around the house. We love science that can be set up in minutes and is really hands on for the kids.

My goal is to have you to feel comfortable with enjoying science at home. Please check out the resources at the bottom of this page for getting started with science any time.

Make sure to check out our: COMPLETE WINTER SCIENCE AND STEM GUIDE!

If you are looking for more awesome science all year round, scroll down to the bottom to check out all our resources. Learn how easy it is to set up science at home with your kids or find fun new ideas to bring into the classroom.

HOW TO MAKE FROST ON A CAN SUPPLIES

You might need to go into the recycling container for this one. Or if you are like me, you will need to cook something first to get a can ready. Make sure there are no sharp edges on your can!

Ice (crushed if possible)

Salt (rock salt or coarse salt if possible)

Can

STEPS

Let’s get started learning how to make frost on a can! It’s really COOL science in all meanings of the word, but it’s also quick and fun for kids.

Again, whether you have recently enjoyed a can of soup or beans, make sure the edges of the can are kid safe and friendly for little fingers. ALSO, save the lid! Work gloves and safety glasses are never a bad thing to have on hand for kids.

First you will want to fill the can with ice.
Next, you will add a layer of salt and cover with the can’s lid.
Then all you need to do is shake! (somewhat carefully so the contents doesn’t spill everywhere)
Watch the frost form. (It can take up to 10 minutes)

Scroll down to read a little simple science behind the whole effect of creating frost on the outside of the can.

Shake up the ice and salt and keep a look out for the frost forming on the outside of the can.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE FROST ON THE CAN

How do you end up with frost on the outside of the can when you are indoors? Shaking the ice and salt together creates a chemical reaction. The melting ice reacts with the salt and actually creates a cooler temperature that goes below freezing.

The moisture from the air will collect on the outside of the can and will actually freeze because of this lower temperature and form the frost. You can read more here and experiment with making dew too.