Welcome to this year's Global Experiment: The Art of Crystallisation
by the Royal Society of Chemistry.
In this experiment we will investigate the conditions for growing the best crystals
but before we begin let's look at what crystals are.
A crystalline solid is made up of atoms or molecules
which are arranged in an ordered grid-like structure
often referred to as a lattice.
Crystals are found in all sorts of everyday materials
and their size and shape heavily influences their properties.
For instance the smoothness of ice cream,
the conductance of silicon in your computer processor
and the absorption of aspirin by the body
are each dependent on crystal size and shape.
This year's experiment has been split into two parts.
First you will dissolve and saturate
a series of widely available samples using local tap water.
Second you will grow your own crystals
and measure their size and shape.
So the equipment you'll be needing to take part in the experiment
are the five samples,
clear plastic disposable cups or glass beakers,
a teaspoon or spatula,
cold tap water,
a small measure (40 centimetres cubed),
a balance or kitchen scales,
a thermometer,
a kettle,
filter paper or paper towels,
a wooden skewer,
clothes pegs,
and optional extras are a magnifying glass for observing the crystals,
or food colouring.
Use this table to record and average your data.
You can find a copy of this on our website.
So we've just completed the first part- our dissolve and saturation step.
And now we're going to move on and grow some crystals.
Now use the crystal size and shape charts
on the instructions document to record your crystal data.
You can find a copy of these on our website.
You can find us online by searching Global Experiment 2014: The Art of Crystallisation.
Don't forget to upload your data and view the results on our interactive map.
So as you can see we've managed to grow some really nice crystals here.
Now it's over to you to take part and don't forget to upload your results.