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How can taffy-like candy help you learn geology? Science Educator Becky and her daughter MJ show you how in this Candy Geology experiment. So grab your Starbursts (or other taffy-like candy) and let's get to work!
Materials:
- Taffy-like candy, like Starbursts
- Waxed paper
- Microwave safe plate or bowl
- Spoon
- Microwave
- Hot pad
Process:
- Unwrap 4-5 candies, and cut them into small pieces (about the size of a pea). These will be the sediment to form sedimentary rocks.
- Gather the candy pieces into a ball and gently press them together to form a rock. If they candies aren’t holding together, place a drop or two of water on the candies. This is now a sedimentary rock is formed over time.
- Place the candy rock in-between layers of waxed paper. Use your spoon to gently press and flatten the rock. Complete this process several times, to create a metamorphic rock.
- Set the metamorphic rock on a microwave safe plate, or bowl, and microwave for 30 seconds. An adult should assist with this step, and use proper safety gear, as the plate or bowl will get hot.
- Gently stir the melted candy, and allow it too cool for at least 5 minutes.
- The candy is now an igneous rock.
Share your rock candy creations with us by using the hashtag #TCMatHome on social media!
