So then, what the hell is "washing soda" and where do I find it?

Question

Ok, maybe I should ask this question instead....Can I use tap water, table salt and baking soda for the crystal forming experiment for my 7 year old? It is not for school or anything so it doesnt matter what how it these things rather than epsome, distilled and washing soda, affect it JUST AS LONG AS WE CAN GROW SOME STUPID CRYSTALS LOL!!! He just loves crystals, thats all and I wanted to show him this experiment. I thought it would be much simpler than this lol!

Answer 1

I know that you can go to Toys "R" us and get a little kit that's less than 10 dollars and it has everything you need for the experiment including the container. My son is into that stuff too, plus the kits you buy in the store grow crystals in all different colors. but if you want to make it from home, there are several "recipes" on the web using household products. most of them require "ALUM" which is in the spice aisle at the grocery store.
below is a link for one of the Alum recipes

http://www.chemistry.co.nz/crystal_recipes.htm#Alum%20Crystals

I also found a weblink for another one that sounds great. the link is:

http://www.amfed.org/fra/sfms98_06.htm

i know i didnt answer your question as to tap water etc. but i couldn't find any recipe with just those items. good luck!

Answer 2

Don't know where you live but washing soda is available in most supermarkets in the cleaning section. It grows fabulous crystals and very quickly. instructions can be found on the net

Answer 3

i think washing soda is sodium bicarbonate or something like that becos i dont remember its scientific name i studied it sacientific name in my school days.yes u can make crystals

Answer 4

You can get washing soda at Wal-Mart its in the detergeant aisle.