The Mpemba effect results in a beautiful example of a cold-weather science experiment. (ID 232328843 © Martinmark | Dreamstime.com)

By Teena Monteleone

Cold-weather science

Extreme cold weather offers excellent opportunity for ‘edu-tainment’

Feb 19, 2025 | 3:00 PM

Saskatchewan’s not out of a deep freeze just yet, but temperatures are expected to warm up to bearable conditions for the remainder of the February break. Science enthusiasts say it’s the perfect time to explore fascinating cold-weather experiments.

Several kids are currently participating in a STEAM camp at the Prince Albert Science Centre. Chair Sandra Williams said they’re learning about Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics over the four day camp, but its also easy for kids at home to try science-based experiments.

“I’m not one to encourage screen time, but there are some great online references that people can use like Magic School Bus, the Science Guy Steve Spengler and you can find some cool experiments just by using Google or YouTube,” said Williams. “Anything that is hands-on creativity is just a beautiful thing to see.”

Speaking of beautiful, one of the cold-weather experiments recommended by Environment and Climate Change Canada involves making a simple concoction that will allow you to watch ice crystals grow in real time by making frozen bubbles.

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You’ll need:

• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tbsp dish soap
• 2 tbsp cornstarch or glycerine
• 2 tbsp sugar

Mix all ingredients well. Blow bubbles onto a stable outdoor surface using a straw or a drink bottle nozzle. Pick a calm day with temperatures below -10°C and watch the delicate ice patterns slowly form across the surface.

Another experiment that takes advantage of the extreme cold (-20°C or colder) also makes noodles defy gravity.

Lift some cooked noodles with chopsticks or a fork and balance them on a supportive surface, then wait for them to freeze solid in the cold air. The same experiment can be done with a wet t-shirt or jeans.

Ever heard of the Mpemba effect? It happens when hot water freezes faster than cold. To conduct the experiment you need outdoor air temperatures to be very cold – at least -25°C or preferably colder – and dry conditions (humidity less than 30%). Very carefully, throw the water away from you, high into the air and watch it basically turn to snow.

“I would recommend people just dress up warm, go outside and if they have an experiment they want to try, give it a whirl because that’s what science is all about,” said Williams. “And if it doesn’t work, look at what you were doing to see if you can make any changes and try it again.”

“We call it ‘edu-tainment: education and entertainment all in one.”

The Prince Albert Science Centre offers activities like snap circuits, robotics labs and even forensic science sessions. Williams said the camps are usually held during school breaks or professional development days for teachers.

Making maple syrup snow candy is easy. (ID 23264441 © Paul Mckinnon | Dreamstime.com)

The experiments are certainly cool, but they can also be sweet. Before heading back indoors to warm up, try this recipe for a classic Canadian winter treat – Maple Snow Candy.

Just be sure to use fresh, white snow.

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teena.monteleone@pattisonmedia.com