This simple science experiment teaches your children about oxidation and allows them to experiment with ways to prevent apples from turning brown! If you try it out, don't forget to take photos and tag us on Instagram (@GIGILSTEMKits)! We would love to see your results!
What is oxidization?
Oxidization is a chemical reaction that takes place when an object is exposed to oxygen. With an apple, the enzymes in the fruit react to the oxygen causing it to brown.
Though it's not exactly a bad thing, oxidized apples aren't appealing to eat and after a while it does cause the apple to become mushy and not as fresh. Let's experiment with some ways we can prevent the apple slices from becoming exposed to oxygen!
Experiment
Start by grabbing a few cups or bowls large enough to submerge the apple slice. In each cup, place a different liquid. We've selected salt water, tap water, soda water, honey water, and lemon juice. Don't forget to include an empty cup for one slice as your control.
Make your guess on which liquid will help the most!
Apple oxidization happens pretty quickly. Check-in with your apples after 10 or 15 minutes to see how they look!
Preventing oxidization is not just about looks. When you check in on your slices, how does each one taste? Which liquid would you use in the future to prevent your apple slices from browning?
Happy experimenting!
GIGIL STEM Subscription Boxes bring STEM Education to your doorstep, with 5 activities each month and all the supplies you need to complete them! Just open up your STEM Kit and go (easy)! We are also Mom's Choice Award and Parents' Picks winners!
Ready to start learning? Subscribe today and your first STEM Kit ships within 3-5 days!