The Lawrence Hall of Science
The public science center of the University of California, Berkeley.
Open Daily 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Animal Discovery Zone 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
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In this activity, learners will make their own prism and use a glass of water to separate sunlight into different colors. Using a piece of cardboard with a small hole and a white piece of paper, learners will direct sunlight through the prism to make a rainbow. Step-by-step instructions with photos and safety measures are include. This activity needs a sunny day. Activity guide includes a “What’s going on?” explanation and connections to relevant science concepts like slowing the speed of light & refraction, component color of white light, and how rainbows are formed in the atmosphere. Materials List:
DIY Sun Science Make a PrismPDF
DIY Sun Science Construye un prismaPDF
Topics: Solar, Light & Optics
Grade Level: Grade 4 and Up
Language: Spanish, English
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Activity Time: 5 minutes
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