Cloud in a Bottle

Effect of Air Pressure on Cloud Formation

Make Up Lab

How does air pressure affect cloud formation?

In your notebook, copy the two definitions:

High Pressure --> Cold, dense air sinks downward. More air particles will press down on an area.

Low Pressure --> Warm, less dense air rises upward. Fewer air particles are pressing down on an area, most are rising.

In the bottle, we can create high pressure by squeezing the sides inward. We can create low pressure by releasing that squeeze.

Modeling High and Low Pressure

We will add smoke and hot water into the bottle. Smoke will help to visualize clouds as it provides something for the water molecules to stick to.

Modeling High and Low Pressure

In your notebook, complete the T-chart for what you observe in the video on the next slide. There is a side for high pressure and a side for low pressure.

Modeling High and Low Pressure

After the video...

Did you fill out your T-Chart?

Answer the question asked at the top of your investigation. In your response, be sure to support it with evidence from what you observed in the bottle and learned from the video.