Science Fun

Homemade Cold Pack

In this quick and easy science experiment tutorial you will learn how to make a “cool” little ice pack. This activity is super easy and can be performed with a few items you already have at home. This science experiment uses an endothermic chemical reaction to create an impressive chill for your ice pack.

 

Materials:

  • Small ziplock baggie
  • About one tablespoon of baking soda
  • About one quarter cup of vinegar
  • Thumbtack or safety pin
  • Water

 

Instructions:

  1. Poke a small hole with the safety pin near the very top of the baggie. This will release pressure and keep your baggie from popping.
  2. Open the ziplock baggie and put the baking soda inside.
  3. Add the vinegar. 
  4. Zip the baggie closed. 
  5. The baking soda and vinegar will begin to react and bubble.
  6. The baggie will quickly expand and you will be able to feel the air escaping through the hole you created.
  7. Shake the baggie and mix the ingredients around. 
  8. Place the baggie in your hand.
  9. You will feel a significant decrease in temperature. 

 

WATCH THE QUICK AND EASY VIDEO TUTORIAL

 

 

How it Works:

When the vinegar and baking soda mix, an endothermic chemical reaction occurs that absorbs heat from the surroundings and reduces the temperature of the area.  

 

Make This A Science Project:

What happens if you use a larger baggie? What happens if you use a different amount of baking soda? What happens if you use a different amount of water? What happens if you use very warm water to begin the experiment? 

 

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