"Rock On"

The 2nd grade has been very busy with their study of rocks and minerals. In the science lab, they studied the rock cycle, and identified different kinds of rocks based on their properties. On the field trip to the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, they learned more about rocks, minerals, and soil, and put their science skills to work. Back in the lab, the students made mold and cast fossils, and also petrified fossils. Ask them to describe the process of how fossils are made in nature. Here is a simple experiment you can try at home to demonstrate how petrified fossils are made.

Petrified Paper
The objective is to model how minerals petrify wood.
Make a prediction as to what you think will happen to the paper log soaked in mineral water.
1. Mix a level tablespoon of Epsom salt with 2 tablespoons of water on a plate. Do not use more than a level tablespoon of the salt.
2. Fold a paper towel into quarters and roll it into a "log".
3. Lay it in your mineral water "swamp" to evaporate until dry.
4. Wood petrifies (turns to stone) as dissolved minerals in the water slowly replace wood fiber. How might your log model this process? How might it be different?
5. Wait several days until your log is completely dry.
a. Evaluate your prediction.
b. Does your petrified log burn? Try this with Mom and Dad's help only.

Please let Mrs. Z. know the results of your experiment.