Cartesian Diver

Science, 2nd Grade

Lesson Description:
The Cartesian Diver experiment is an experiment that involves sinking an eyedropper in a clear,
plastic bottle by squeezing the sides of the bottle. Named after French scientist, mathematician, and
philosopher; René Descartes; this experiment explores pressure, density, buoyancy, and the properties of
water and air.
Standards:
2-PS1-1 Students will plan and conduct an investigation using different kinds of materials to look at
different observable properties.
2-PS1-2 Students will compare what happens when using different materials in an experiment. They will
determine which materials work best for the experiment’s intended purpose.
Materials:
● 2 Liter, Clear Bottles without Labels (Can use normal water bottles if unavailable)
● Water
● Cup
● Eyedroppers
● Rubber Bands
● Fuzzy Sticks
● String
Procedure:
1. Have students fill their clear bottles up to the top with water.
2. Have students fill their eye droppers by placing their eye droppers in a cup of water and
squeezing the bulb.
3. Have students place the eyedropper in the bottle and close the lid.
a. How can we make the eyedropper fall to the bottom of the bottle? (Let the students mess
around with this).
b. Does it make a difference how full the eyedropper is with water? (Have students compare
with a different group of students and explain their thinking.)
4. Allow students to use the various materials to keep the eyedropper sunken.
a. What worked, what did not?
b. Why do you think certain materials worked better than others?
5. Discuss how and why this experiment works with students through questioning.
Outcomes: (What do students learn (facts) or accomplish (skills, products)
● Pressure
● Properties of Water
● Properties of Air
● Buoyancy
● Density
● Gravity