13 Science Experiments for High School that Your Students Will Love [2023 Edition]

Incorporating science experiments for high school curriculum can transform mundane learning into an exciting experience of exploration and discovery. With hands-on activities, students can understand the world around them through a scientific lens. These experiments provide the perfect chance for students to showcase their critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. As an educator, embracing science experimentation can make the classroom a dynamic place of inquiry and experimentation.

Looking to rev up your high school science lessons? Look no further than these 13 super cool and engaging experiments! Not only will they teach your students important scientific concepts, but they’ll also inspire a lifelong love of learning and curiosity about the natural world. From bubbling chemical reactions to mind-bending optical illusions, these experiments are the perfect way to make science more fun, accessible, and exciting for your students. So grab your lab coat and get ready to dive into the world of science!

This article will equip high school teachers with an arsenal of exciting science experiments that will keep their students engaged and learning. Offering experiments across a variety of disciplines, from physics to biology, this carefully curated list will be suitable for learners at any level. By incorporating these experiments into their lesson plans, educators will be providing their students with valuable hands-on experience that complements their textbook knowledge. With easy-to-follow instructions and materials that are easily accessible, teaching science has never been more enjoyable!

Experiment 1: Investigating Osmosis with Potato Slices

High school students will be captivated by the wonders of osmosis and its impact on plant cells. They’ll delve into the world of scientific discovery through an exciting potato experiment. By immersing potato slices in varying solutions, they’ll witness firsthand the movement of water in and out of the cells, leading to a better understanding of osmosis, molecular activity, and diffusion.

Materials needed:

• 3-4 potatoes
• Knife
• Salt
• Water
• Sugar
• Measuring cup
• 3 bowls

Steps:

1. Cut the potatoes into thin slices and place them in three separate bowls.
2. Add water to the first bowl, saltwater to the second bowl, and sugar water to the third bowl.
3. Allow the potato slices to soak for an hour.
4. Remove the potato slices from the solutions and observe the changes in their appearance and texture.

In this video, you will learn how to conduct an osmosis experiment using potatoes. You will see how water moves in and out of cells, and how it affects the appearance of the potato slices.

Experiment 2: Making a Homemade Volcano

High school students can try their hand at being a scientist by creating their very own volcanic eruption! By combining baking soda and vinegar, they can observe the exciting chemical reaction that occurs. Not only will this experiment be fun, but it also provides a valuable learning opportunity to better understand the process of chemical reactions.

Materials needed:

• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Red food coloring
• Dish soap
• Play dough
• Small container
• Funnel

Steps:

1. Create a cone-shaped volcano using play dough and place it in a small container.
2. Add 1/4 cup of baking soda, a few drops of red food coloring, and a small amount of dish soap to the container.
3. Pour vinegar into the container using a funnel and watch the eruption!

In this video, you will learn how to create your own homemade volcano using simple materials. You will see how the chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar causes the eruption, and learn about the science behind it.

Experiment 3: Exploring Density with Oil and Water

By conducting this experiment, high school students will delve into the fascinating world of density and its impact on the behavior of liquids. Observing layers of oil and water that stubbornly refuse to mix will undoubtedly leave them awestruck and enlightened.

Materials needed:

• Vegetable oil
• Water
• Food coloring
• Tall glass
• Dropper

Steps:

1. Fill a tall glass halfway with water.
2. Add a few drops of food coloring to the water.
3. Slowly pour vegetable oil into the glass until it reaches the top.
4. Observe the layers of oil and water and how they behave.

In this video, you will learn about the concept of density and how it affects the behavior of liquids. You will see how oil and water don’t mix and form layers, and learn about the science behind it.

Experiment 4: Building a Simple Electric Motor

Looking to spark the curiosity of high school students? How about delving into the inner workings of an electric motor, revealing the secrets of how it deftly transforms electrical energy into mechanical energy? This experiment will give students a hands-on lesson in electromagnetism, so they’ll understand the fascinating science behind this powerful technology.

Materials needed:

• Battery
• Wire
• Paperclip
• Magnet
• Rubber band
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Wrap the wire around the paperclip and leave both ends free.
2. Attach one end of the wire to the positive terminal of the battery and the other end to the paperclip.
3. Place the magnet next to the paperclip and secure it with a rubber band.
4. Watch as the paperclip moves!

Experience the mesmerizing magnificence of an electric motor as this video unravels the mystery behind its seamless conversion of electrical energy into mechanical power. Unlock the inner workings of this wonder machine in the science experiments for high school.

Experiment 5: Testing Acids and Bases with Red Cabbage

This engaging educational activity presents high school students with a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating concept of pH and its impact on acid and base properties. The experiment involves the use of red cabbage as a natural pH indicator that allows students to readily detect color changes that are caused by differing substances introduced. Delving deeper into the science behind this experiment, the pigment molecule anthocyanin plays a crucial role, exhibiting color changes in direct response to pH variations.

Materials needed:

• Red cabbage leaves
• Blender or food processor
• Strainer or cheesecloth
• Test tubes or clear cups
• Vinegar
• Baking soda
• Lemon juice
• Water
• Ammonia

Steps:

1. Blend or process the red cabbage leaves with water until a liquid is formed.
2. Strain the liquid into a container.
3. Divide the liquid into separate test tubes or cups.
4. Add a small amount of each substance to be tested (vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, water, and ammonia) to a separate test tube or cup.
5. Observe the color changes and record the results.

In this experiment video, we’ll be testing household substances with red cabbage juice to determine whether they are acidic or basic.

Experiment 6: Observing Microorganisms with a Microscope

Are you a high schooler fascinated by the microscopic world? Look no further than this exciting experiment in microbiology! Using just a simple microscope, you can observe the amazing variety of microorganisms all around us, from tiny bacteria to incredible protozoa and colorful algae. You’ll get hands-on experience preparing slides and learning how to adjust your focus, as well as developing the skills you need to identify different types of microorganisms.

Materials needed:

• Microscope
• Microscope slides and coverslips
• Dropper
• Water
• Toothpick
• Various microorganisms (such as pond water, yogurt, or bread mold)

Steps:

1. Place a drop of water on a microscope slide.
2. Use a toothpick to collect a small sample of the microorganism to be observed.
3. Place the sample in the water droplet on the slide.
4. Cover the sample with a coverslip.
5. Place the slide under the microscope and adjust the focus until the microorganisms can be seen clearly.

Get ready to explore the microscopic world with this video! In this experiment video, they’ll be collecting samples and observing microorganisms under a microscope.

Experiment 7: Studying Chemical Reactions with Alka-Seltzer

Looking for an exciting science experiment that high school students will love? Look no further! This experiment teaches your students about chemical reactions while producing the fun spectacle of fizzing and bubbling. By using Alka-Seltzer tablets which react with water to produce carbon dioxide gas, your students will learn how chemical reactions can cause amazing things to happen.

Materials needed:

• Alka-Seltzer tablets
• Water
• Clear plastic bottle or jar
• Balloon

Steps:

1. Fill the plastic bottle or jar with water.
2. Drop an Alka-Seltzer tablet into the water.
3. Quickly stretch the opening of the balloon over the mouth of the bottle or jar.
4. Observe the balloon as the tablet reacts with the water and produces carbon dioxide gas.

Get ready for some explosive reactions! In this experiment video, we’ll be studying chemical reactions with Alka-Seltzer tablets.

Experiment 8: Measuring the Speed of Light with a Microwave Oven

Looking for an engaging way to bring the concept of light speed measurement to life? Look no further than this exciting experiment! Perfect for high school students, this one-of-a-kind approach involves using just a microwave oven and chocolate bar to determine the speed of light. By carefully observing where the chocolate melts within the microwave, students can calculate this fundamental principle with ease.

Materials needed:

• Microwave oven
• Chocolate bar
• Ruler
• Calculator
• Sheet of paper

Steps:

1. Place the chocolate bar on a microwave-safe plate and put it in the microwave.
2. Set the oven to high and start the timer for 10 seconds.
3. Observe the chocolate bar and take note of the melted spots.
4. Measure the distance between these spots using a ruler.
5. Calculate the speed of light using the formula: speed of light = distance between spots / time (in seconds).

Are you curious about the speed of light and want to measure it yourself? With just a microwave oven and a chocolate bar, you can calculate the speed of light with this fun and easy experiment.

Experiment 9: Demonstrating Newton’s Third Law of Motion with Balloons

Experience the thrill of launching balloons across the room while learning about Newton’s Third Law of Motion with this engaging experiment. High schoolers will love seeing the phenomenon of equal and opposite reactions in action as the force of the air escaping the balloon propels it in the opposite direction.

Materials needed:

• Balloons
• String
• Straws
• Tape
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Tie a piece of string to the end of a balloon and tape the other end of the string to a table or a chair.
2. Cut two straws into small pieces and tape them to the balloon.
3. Inflate the balloon and hold it by the straw pieces.
4. Release the balloon and observe how it moves.
5. Repeat the experiment with different amounts of air in the balloon and observe the changes in the balloon’s movement.

Have you ever wondered why launching a balloon across the room sends it in the opposite direction? This experiment will demonstrate Newton’s Third Law of Motion and show you how equal and opposite reactions work.

Experiment 10: Observing the Greenhouse Effect with Sunlight and Jars

Engage high schoolers in an exciting learning experience with this experiment! It’s all about the greenhouse effect, and how sunlight warms up different substances inside a jar. With hands-on observation, students can witness the science behind this natural phenomenon that affects our planet’s environment. It’s a fantastic opportunity to understand one of the most important ecological concepts, all while having fun in the lab!

Materials needed:

• Jars
• Thermometers
• Black construction paper
• White paper
• Water

Steps:

1. Fill one jar with water and one without.
2. Cover the jar with black construction paper and place it in the sun.
3. Cover the other jar with white paper and place it next to the black jar in the sun.
4. Insert a thermometer into each jar and record the temperature every few minutes.
5. Observe and compare the temperature changes in each jar over time.

Have you ever wondered how the greenhouse effect works and what it does to our planet? With this experiment, you can observe the greenhouse effect in action and see how light can heat up different substances inside a jar.

Experiment 11: Investigating Chromatography with Markers

High schoolers are always looking for fun and engaging ways to learn about science. That’s why chromatography is the perfect experiment to capture their attention. Through this experiment, students get to witness the separation of inks or dyes into their individual components, making for a colorful display. Not only is it visually stimulating, but it also teaches the fundamental principles of chromatography – a process used in the medical and forensic sciences.

Materials needed:

• Coffee filter paper
• Pens or markers with water-based ink
• Rubbing alcohol or water
• Pencil
• Clear plastic cup

Steps:

1. Cut the coffee filter paper into strips, and draw a small dot of ink in different colors near the bottom of each strip.
2. Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol or water into the clear plastic cup, and place the bottom of the coffee filter strip into the liquid.
3. Use a pencil to secure the top of the strip to the edge of the cup, making sure that the bottom of the strip is just touching the liquid.
4. Observe the inks as they move up the paper, and wait until the liquid has almost reached the top.
5. Remove the paper strip and let it dry. Observe and identify the different colors that were separated by the chromatography process.

In this experiment, we will be investigating chromatography using everyday materials like coffee filter paper, pens, and rubbing alcohol. Watch as the colorful separation of ink molecules takes place before your very eyes!

Experiment 12: Creating a Simple Electromagnet

Discover the fantastic world of electricity and magnetism! With this experiment, high school students can delve into the intriguing relationship between these two concepts. Get ready to build an amazing electromagnet that will teach you how current flows and creates magnetic waves. You will uncover how the magnetic field produced can have practical applications in our daily lives.

Materials needed:

• Copper wire
• Iron nail
• Battery (preferably a 9-volt battery)
• Paperclips

Steps:

1. Wrap the copper wire around the iron nail, leaving about 6 inches of wire on either side.
2. Connect one end of the wire to one end of the battery, and the other end of the wire to the other end of the battery.
3. Test the electromagnet by touching the tip of the nail to a paperclip. The paperclip should be attracted to the nail and stick to it.
4. Experiment with the number of turns of wire around the nail and the strength of the battery to see how these factors affect the strength of the electromagnet.

In this experiment, we will be creating a simple electromagnet using a few common materials like copper wire, an iron nail, and a battery. Discover how electricity and magnetism are intertwined, and learn about the practical applications of electromagnets in everyday life!

Experiment 13: Examining Photosynthesis with Leaf Disks

Invigorate your biology lesson with a dynamic experiment that highlights the fundamental concept of photosynthesis. Watch as high school students discover the magic of this process in action by extracting chloroplasts from fresh spinach leaves. By connecting the dots between the textbook and the real world, students will gain a deeper understanding of the intricate processes that make life possible.

Materials needed:

• Spinach leaves
• Baking soda
• Distilled water
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Plastic syringes
• Clear plastic cups
• Light source
• Timer
• Sodium bicarbonate
• Soap
• Hole punch
• Paper clips
• Microscope slides and coverslips

Steps:

1. Cut the spinach leaves into small pieces and blend them with distilled water to extract the chloroplasts.
2. Mix a solution of sodium bicarbonate and distilled water to create a solution with a pH of 7.0.
3. Fill a syringe with the solution and gently inject it into the leaf discs using a hole punch.
4. Add a drop of soap to the solution to reduce surface tension.
5. Put the leaf discs in the clear plastic cups filled with the sodium bicarbonate solution and place them under a light source.
6. Start the timer and observe the leaf discs as they undergo photosynthesis.
7. Record the time it takes for the leaf discs to float to the surface and record the rate of photosynthesis.

In this experiment, we’ll be examining photosynthesis with leaf disks. Watch as we extract chloroplasts from spinach leaves and observe the process of photosynthesis in action.

Additional 3 Fun Science Experiments for High School

As students progress through high school, they’re bound to encounter a wide range of scientific principles that can be hard to grasp through book learning alone. That’s where science experiments come in – they offer the chance for students to really engage with these concepts in a hands-on way, fostering a deeper understanding of the fundamentals.

Plus, when students are given the freedom to explore and experiment, they’re able to develop important critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as flex their creative muscles. It’s no wonder that science experiments are a vital part of any well-rounded high school education.

Experiment 14: Making Invisible Ink with Lemon Juice

Looking to add some excitement and thrill to high school chemistry labs? This experiment is a fantastic way to get students engaged and interested in the science behind invisible ink. By harnessing the power of organic compounds found in lemon juice, students will be able to create their own invisible ink and watch it appear right before their eyes when heated up. It’s a hands-on way to learn about chemical reactions, and it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on any young, aspiring scientist.

Materials needed:

• Lemon juice
• Water
• Bowl
• Cotton swab
• White paper
• Heat source (such as a light bulb or iron)

Steps:

1. Mix lemon juice and water in a bowl in a 2:1 ratio.
2. Use the cotton swab to write a message on the white paper using the lemon juice mixture.
3. Allow the message to dry completely.
4. Heat the paper with a light bulb or iron until the message becomes visible.

In this captivating experiment video, budding scientists can unlock the secrets of invisible ink with a little help from organic compounds found in lemon juice. Get ready to witness the magic unfold as students craft their own covert messages, and watch them materialize before their very eyes with a simple application of heat.

Experiment 15: Creating Rainbow Fire with Salt

Experience the magic of flame coloration with this energetic experiment. Get a firsthand look at how different compounds can affect flame coloration – from the bright yellow produced by salt, to the unique hues created by copper sulfate and strontium chloride. Explore the fascinating world of chemistry and fire with this colorful demonstration.

Materials needed:

• Table salt
• Heat-resistant container (such as a ceramic bowl)
• Heat source (such as a lighter or match)
• Optional: copper sulfate or strontium chloride for additional colors

Steps:

1. Sprinkle salt evenly into the heat-resistant container.
2. Ignite the salt using a heat source.
3. Observe the bright yellow color produced by the salt.
4. For additional colors, add a small amount of copper sulfate or strontium chloride to the salt and ignite.

This video will provide you with an illuminating perspective on the captivating world of flame coloration. Discover the captivating shades that emerge from copper sulfate and strontium chloride, along with the vibrant yellow that salt can produce.

Experiment 3: Exploring Bioluminescence with Glowing Bacteria

This exciting experiment will introduce high school students to the fascinating world of bioluminescence. Through the use of a bacteria and sugar mix, students will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the incredible power of organisms, such as fireflies and glowing bacteria, that produce their own light. Get ready for an enlightening experience that will ignite your curiosity and leave you glowing with excitement!

Materials needed:

• Bioluminescent bacteria (such as Vibrio fischeri)
• White granulated sugar
• Water
• Flask or test tube

Steps:

1. Mix a small amount of bioluminescent bacteria with a spoonful of white granulated sugar in a flask or test tube.
2. Add water to the flask or test tube until it is about ¾ full.
3. Shake the flask or test tube to mix the solution.
4. Wait several hours for the bacteria to multiply and produce light.
5. Observe the bioluminescence produced by the bacteria in a dark room.

In this video, you’ll discover the wonder of organisms that light up on their own, like magical fireflies and glowing bacteria. Using a special bacteria and sugar concoction, students will be amazed by the incredible display of light created by these tiny creatures.

Useful Science Experiments Resources

• SSEC.si.edu — Discover a world of science wonders and excitement with these trusted and free online resources! Get ready to dive into the depths of interactive and engaging lesson plans and experiments that cater to high school students’ needs. From exploring the intricacies of the Smithsonian Science Education Center resources to aligning with national science standards, you’re bound to leave your students clamoring for more!
• ScienceMuseum.org.uk — Science museums and local science centers provide an exciting playground for both students and teachers. They are not just ordinary establishments, but a treasure trove of hands-on exhibits, workshops, and engaging programs that help explore science in a captivating and interactive way. These institutions are ideal for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the world of science while having fun at the same time.
• NSTA.org — Science teachers need to stay ahead of the game when it comes to teaching methods, curriculum updates, and technology advancements. To achieve this, they can take advantage of professional development opportunities. The National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) offers a range of options like workshops, conferences, and online courses to help educators refine their skills.

Conclusion

The world of science is endlessly fascinating, and introducing high school students to these concepts can be a thrilling experience. For teachers looking to inspire curiosity in their students, we recommend trying out these 13 science experiments for high school. From discovering the secrets of invisible ink to exploring the wonders of bioluminescence, these experiments are sure to ignite a spark of excitement in students. Not only do science experiments provide a memorable way to learn, but they also help students develop crucial problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

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Simona Johnes

Simona Johnes is the visionary being the creation of our project. Johnes spent much of her career in the classroom working with students. And, after many years in the classroom, Johnes became a principal.

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