Launchpad: Surface Tension On-Board the International Space Station
Join the Teaching From Space Team on-orbit to learn about surface tension. Learn why water drops form perfect spheres and how the mutual attraction of water molecules forms a tight skin on water surfaces.
Discussion and writing prompts
1. Compare the behavior of a water droplet on Earth with its behavior aboard the ISS. Explain how gravity and surface tension influence the shape and movement of water in each environment.
2. Surface tension is caused by attractions between water molecules that we cannot see directly. How can scientists use observations and experiments to investigate forces that are not visible?
3. The microgravity environment aboard the International Space Station allows scientists to observe water behaving differently than it does on Earth. Why might studying liquids in microgravity help scientists develop new technologies or prepare for future space missions?
4. Imagine you are an engineer designing a water system for astronauts traveling to Mars. Explain how surface tension could affect the way water is stored, moved, or used in the spacecraft. Describe one design feature you would include to manage water safely and efficiently.
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Background Information
Grades 3 through 12
- NASA Living in Space (webpage)
Grades 6 through 8
- NASA STEMonstrations Properties of Water (video)
- NASA STEMonstrations: Properties of Water (webpage)
Grades 6 through 12
- NASA A Day In the Life (videos)
- U.S. Geological Survey Properties of Water (webpage)
- U.S. Geological Survey Adhesion and Cohesion of Water (video)
- U.S. Geological Survey Adhesion and Cohesion of Water (webpage)
- U.S. Geological Survey Surface Tension and Water (webpage)
- U.S. Geological Survey Capillary Action and Water (webpage)
- NASA Moving Water in Space (webpage)
- NASA STEMonstrations: Surface Tension (video)
- NASA How Does Water Move in Space (video)
Grades 9 through 12
- PBS LearningMedia Teaching from Space: Surface Tension (webpage)
Activities
Grades K through 5
- NASA Christa’s Lost Lessons: Walking Rainbow (pdf)
Grades 3 through 8
- PBS Surface Tension: DIY Science Time (webpage)
Grades 3 through 12
- NASA Water Surface Tension (video)
Grades 6 through 8
- NASA Properties of Water (pdf)
Grades 9 through 12
- NASA STEMonstrations Surface Tension (pdf)