NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

The information in this document was accurate as of the original publication date.

Audience: Educators
Grades: 5-12


Crystals can be grown using a variety of methods. One of the simplest ways involves dissolving a solid into a liquid. While students can easily grow crystals by following the directions, the success of observing the density-driven convection currents depends upon a very still environment. "Student reader" pages provide background information about crystal growth. Student worksheets may be used to assess student learning.

Crystal Growth and Buoyancy-Driven Convection Currents [156KB PDF file]

This lesson plan is part of the Microgravity Educator Guide.