A rainbow in the house

Globule wonders...

How do rainbows form?

For these two experiments you will need sunlight. Make sure you try them on a beautiful sunny day.

Experiment 1: A rainbow in the house

Hypotheses: Allow children to submit their ideas. Their imaginative spirits will result in eccentric responses. Jot them down! Remember there are no wrong answers! We are aiming for observation not comprehension.

Material:

• A large container filled with water
• A mirror

Manipulations:

1. Place the container filled with water near a window with plenty of sunlight (If the sun's rays are not strong enough you can use a flashlight).
   
   
2. Close the lights.
   
   
3. Place the mirror in the water. Do not make waves!
   
   
4. Reflect the sunlight (or the light from the flashlight) onto a white wall or ceiling.
   
   
5. Observe the rainbow you created!
   
   
6. Can you name the colours you see? 

Explanations: The sun's white light is made up of coloured lights corresponding to the colours of a rainbow. These lights change direction and separate when they enter or exit water. This explains why you see seven colours on the wall or ceiling. The white light divided itself into seven rays of light: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo (dark blue), and purple.

Experiment 2: A rainbow on droplets of water

Material: A hose

Manipulations:

1. Stand with your back to the sun. Hold the hose. Your daycare worker must adjust it so the water sprays like a light rain.
   
   
2. Hold the hose upwards in front of you.
   
   
3. Observe the rainbow on the droplets of water!

Explanations: The principle is the same as in the first experiment. The seven coloured lights which merge into the sun's white light separate when they penetrate the droplets of water and reflect towards your eyes.

Angélique Boissonneault

has a Bachelor's Degree in Biological Science. She has worked in a laboratory and tested her knowledge. She has taught Math, Chemistry, and Physics. She has also developed a simplistic and innovative approach designed to introduce young children to scientific experiments, old and new. She created her friend Globule. This character is sometimes red, and sometimes white. He guides little ones through their scientific experiments and discoveries. It is clear to see Angélique is passionate about children and science. Globule's Approach.