How to Make a Simple Sedimentation Cone

Sedimentation cones are glass or plastic cones that are used to measure the different levels of sediment in soil. If you don’t want to purchase your own sedimentation cones you can make some at home. Simple homemade sedimentation cones won’t have the accuracy of measurement store bought cones have, but they can give you a rough idea of how the soil in your yard settles. The dominant level of sentiment in the cone can show if you have sand, silt or clay based soil.

Things You'll Need

• Sheet plastic
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Tape
• Marker

Instructions

1. Cut the flexible sheet plastic into a circle about 12 to 15 inches across.

2. Cut a straight line into the plastic sheet circle right into the middle of the circle.

3. Roll the plastic circle into a cone by folding the layers of plastic over each other.

4. Tape the cone in place.

5. Use the ruler and marker to mark off each inch in the sedimentation cone.

References

• "Science Crafts for Kids;" Gwen Diehn and Terry Krautwurst ; 1997