How to Make a Tornado Using Dry Ice
Scientists are studying why and how tornados form. You can make your own tornado using dry ice and a few other items. You can study tornado formation as well with this simple project. If you are looking for a science fair project, this may be a good choice for you.
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Things You'll Need
- 12x12 inch piece of plywood or similar size
- Low-heat glue gun
- Glue sticks
- 7-inch clear plastic plant saucer
- Small Styrofoam bowl
- Two 9x10 vinyl sheets
- Small battery-operated fan
- ½ cup water
- Dry ice
- Rubber gloves
- Tongs
Instructions
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1
Gather the materials so you can construct your tornado-forming machine. Keep the dry ice in a cooler until you are ready to create the tornado.
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2
Cut a two-inch hole in the center of the plant saucer. Set it aside for now.
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3
Heat the glue gun. Put a small amount of glue in the center of the piece of plywood. Let the glue cool for about 30 seconds. Set the Styrofoam bowl in the hot glue. If you set the bowl in the glue too quickly the bowl may melt.
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4
Glue the narrow end of one of the vinyl sheets to one side of the bowl. Once again don't let the Styrofoam or plastic melt. Once the glue is set, run a bead of glue on the board that keeps the vinyl close to the bowl but not touching it. The half circle that you form in this step should get bigger as you get away from the connection on the bowl. Set the long edge of vinyl in the glue.
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5
Repeat this process on the other side of the bowl for the second sheet of vinyl. Neither piece of vinyl should touch the other.
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6
Measure the water. Place it in the bowl. Use gloves or tongs to set a couple pieces of dry ice in the bowl also.
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7
Turn the plant saucer upside down and set it over the Styrofoam dish. Lay the battery-operated fan over the hole and turn it on so that it directs air upward. Watch the condensation from the water and dry ice begin to rise and swirl like the vortex of a tornado.
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Tips & Warnings
Dry ice can damage your skin in an instant. Use gloves and/or tongs to handle it safely.
