It is preferable to use distilled or filtered water, but tap water works very well. Try to keep the crystal growing experiment in an area with constant humidity and temperature, as much as possible. Once you prepare solutions, place them where they will not be disturbed. A product that can be easily found in drug stores or in grocery stores, epsom salt is commonly used in many households. Granulated sugar and table salt also create interesting crystals crystals.
Distilled water is recommended.
The purpose of this activity is to provide students with the opportunity to make crystals using materials and instructions provided. This is a structured activity, and is intended to introduce students to crystal making. In Activity 15, students will extend this experience by investigating variables that affect crystal growth. Students will make crystals using one or all of the solutes listed in the materials section. For example, if students are making a copper sulfate solution, they will follow these instructions.