This is a fun, simple STEM activity where kids can see how convection currents work! This experiment was featured in the activity pack in one of our junior reader book boxes.
First, copy the snake template below onto paper, colour it in and cut it out, including along the spiral. Thread a length of cotton through the tip of the tail and secure it.
Next, balance a stick or pencil across two items of equal height (e.g. boxes). Tie the other end of the thread to the pencil, so the snake suspends.
With adult help or supervision, light a candle or tea light and place it beneath the snake (not too close!!). Watch and see what happens!
How does it work? When air is heated, it expands as its molecules spread out away from each other. This means that hot air will rise above cool air, and that's exactly what you see making this snake spin! As the hot air rises up, cooler air flows in to replace it - but then the cool air gets heated by the candle, and the whole thing repeats. This cycle of moving air is called a convection current. Convection currents are all around us. They cause wind, all kinds of weather, and affect ocean temperature too.
