Materials:
- 3 different types of "rocks" (such as hard candies or small stones)
- 1 clear jar or container with tight lid
- Timer or stopwatch
- Paper for observations
- Pencil
Introduction:
Along the coast, waves are constantly crashing into rocks, cliffs, and shorelines. Each wave releases energy, and over time that energy can break large rocks into smaller pieces. This process is called weathering, and it is one of the main ways sand is created on beaches.
Not all waves carry the same amount of energy. Calm days produce gentle waves, while storms produce powerful waves that can move rocks and break them apart more quickly. Different types of rocks also respond differently to this energy depending on how hard or soft they are.
In this activity, you’ll model coastal weathering by simulating gentle and strong wave conditions. By observing how your “rocks” change, you’ll learn how energy and material both play a role in shaping coastal environments.
Procedure:
- Observe Your Rocks: Look closely at each “rock.” Record its size, shape, and texture before weathering begins.
- Gentle Weathering: Place one type of rock into the jar and seal it. Gently roll the jar back and forth for two minutes to model low-energy waves. Open the jar and record what changed.
- Strong Weathering: Seal the same rock in the jar again. Shake the jar vigorously for two minutes to model high-energy waves, like during storms. Observe and record any changes.
- Repeat and Compare: Repeat the gentle and strong weathering steps with the other rock types. Compare how each one responds to different energy levels.
- Think Like a Scientist: Look back at your observations and identify patterns between wave energy, rock type, and how much weathering occurred.
