The Lawrence Hall of Science

The public science center of the University of California, Berkeley.

Activity

Water Underground

Activity

Water Underground

Many people get water from a source deep underground, called groundwater. In this activity learners will make a model to explore this hidden water, and see how it connects to the other bodies of water. The model uses light-colored gravel in combination with red & blue colored water to allow learners to investigate the movement of groundwater and its potential contamination. Step-by-step instructions are included with photos along with safety recommendations. Activity guide includes a “What’s going on?” explanation and relevant connections to the importance of groundwater and pollution.

Materials List:


  • Clear plastic bin (at least as large as a shoebox)

  • Small white gravel, enough to fill about half of the plastic container

  • Colander or strainer

  • 1 L (34 oz) of water in a container

  • 250 mL (about 8 oz of water in a separate container)

  • Blue and red food coloring

  • Soap dispenser pump, rinsed (pump only, not container)

  • Tape (most kinds will work)

  • Old pair of pantyhose or other thin stockings, or thin piece of cotton

  • Scissors

  • Rubber band

  • 2 small, clear drinking cups

Activitiy:

DIY Lake Science Water UndergroundPDF

Topics: Rocks & Minerals, Rivers, Lakes, Oceans & Water, Weather & Climate, Ecology

Grade Level: Grade 1 and Up

Activity Type: Experiment/Lab Activity, Model

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Activity Time: 20 minutes