Growing crystals with borax is one of the classic first chemistry experiments. But this fun chemistry demonstration doesn’t have to just be for kids! Let’s take a look at how we grow crystals with borax and see what you need to do to grow crystals with borax at home.
What Is Borax?
Borax, also known as sodium borate, is a naturally occurring mineral and a salt of boric acid. It appears as a white powder that dissolves easily in water and is commonly used in household cleaning products and laundry detergents. Its ability to form crystalline structures makes it a popular choice for science experiments. Do you know how to grow crystals with borax? If not, we’ll show you how right now!
How To Grow Crystals With Borax
Growing crystals with borax is a straightforward, simple process. You’ll need a few materials, most of which you probably already have. You’ll also need some patience!
Materials Needed:
- Borax powder
- Boiling water
- A glass jar or other heat-resistant container
- Pipe cleaners or a natural object like a pinecone or twig
- A spoon for stirring
- String and a pencil
- Food coloring (optional, for colored crystals)
How To Grow Borax Crystals
- Prepare the Solution: Start by boiling water. You will need about 1 cup of water for every 3 tablespoons of borax. Once the water is boiling, carefully pour it into your heat-resistant container.
- Dissolve the Borax: Add borax powder to the boiling water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring continuously until the borax no longer dissolves and begins to accumulate at the bottom of the container.
- Add Food Coloring: If you want to grow colored crystals, add a few drops of food coloring to the solution and stir until evenly mixed.
- Prepare the Object: Shape your pipe cleaner into a fun design or use a natural object like a pinecone.
- Suspend the Object: Tie one end of a string to your object and the other end to a pencil. Place the pencil across the top of the container so that the object is fully submerged in the solution without touching the sides or bottom. If you don’t suspend your object, the crystals around the base will break when you remove it from the jar.
- Allow Crystals to Grow: Place the container in a location where it can sit undisturbed. As the solution cools, borax crystals will begin to form on the object.
How Long Do Borax Crystals Take to Grow?
The growth of borax crystals can begin within a few hours, but for the best results, leave the object in the solution for at least 24 hours. After 24 hours, carefully remove the object from the solution and let it dry completely.
