Product Type: Lesson Plan/Activity
Audience: Educators, Informal Education
Grade Levels: 5-12
Publication Year: 1997
Product Number: EG-1997-08-110-HQ
Subjects: General Science, Physical Science
In fluid physics experiments aboard the space shuttle and the International Space Station, microgravity almost eliminates buoyancy. Surface tension does not depend on gravity. In this cooking oil experiment, students observe how the increase in temperature of the oil reduces surface tension. "Student reader" pages provide background information about temperature effects on surface tension. Student worksheets may be used for the assessment.
Temperature Effects on Surface Tension [199KB PDF file]
This lesson plan is part of the Microgravity Educator Guide.