Experiments on sea level rise [video]
Discover the two main causes of sea level rise
Sea level rise experiments - activity sheet
Group activity
Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
Type of activity: hands-on experiment
Language: English
Materials required for the first experiment: a clear plastic bottle and container, a straw about 30cm long, a ruler, two types of food colouring, some Blu-Tack
Materials required for the second experiment: a bowl, ice cubes, a flat rock, foil or a plastic container to wrap the rock
With these two experimental activities, participants will be able to examine the direct causes of rising sea level.
The first activity is a simple way to show how water expands when it is heated, using a water bottle and a straw.
The second activity, as is shown in the video, explores another reason for sea level rise, the inflow of freshwater from melting land ice and polar caps.
The experimental protocol for both activities is provided in the activity sheet, as well as an observation, explanation and extension section. These are accompanied by questions designed to help the aspiring scientists understand and analyze their observations.
Follow-up with a modelization activity:
How to build an experimental sea wall (9-11)