Crystals: How They Form

What You'll Learn

Crystallization occurs when a solution becomes supersaturated and dissolved particles form an orderly solid structure. Snowflakes, salt crystals, and rock candy form this way.

Key Words

mass
volume

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Study the diagram and label the parts you recognize.

Step 2 — Do

Heat ice and record the temperature every minute as it melts and then boils. Graph the temperature changes and label each phase change.

Step 3 — Observe

Compare the before and after states.

Step 4 — Record

Write your conclusion: did the results match your hypothesis? What would you change next time?

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is the chemical formula for water?