Materials Required:
Magic Shell chocolate ice cream topping
Ice cubes (one per student or group)
Small plates or trays
Paper towels or napkins
Optional: Additional rocks or images of igneous rocks for comparison
Steps Involved:
Introduction to Igneous Rocks: Begin by explaining how igneous rocks are formed from the cooling and solidification of lava after it erupts from a volcano. Show examples or pictures of igneous rocks like obsidian.
Prepare the Materials: Distribute an ice cube to each student or group, placing it on a small plate or tray.
Pour the Magic Shell: Demonstrate how to pour the Magic Shell chocolate topping over the ice cube. As the liquid chocolate touches the cold surface of the ice, it will begin to harden.
Observe the Transformation: Have students watch the chocolate as it cools and hardens, representing the formation of an igneous rock from molten lava. Discuss the change in state from liquid to solid and how this relates to volcanic activity.
Discussion: Encourage students to share their observations and compare the hardened chocolate to real igneous rocks. Discuss the similarities between the cooling chocolate and the formation of rocks like obsidian.
Optional: If desired, students can taste a small piece of the hardened chocolate after the activity, reinforcing the concept in a fun and memorable way.