The Carrot Conundrum

For one of our letter C science activities we used the idea for Carrot on a String, found here. The instructions are clear enough, but what they don't tell you is what exactly is the end result of this experiment. I did a brief google search and still didn't come up with any clear description of what to expect, but I decided to go for it anyways. I am typing this post the same day that we started this experiment, so as I write this I still have no idea what's going to happen with our carrot. Don't worry though, I'll post again in a few days with the results.

So, what exactly is involved in the Carrot on a String experiment? Well, let me show you. First, let's gather our supplies:

-a carrot
-a vegetable peeler or small paring knife
-a string
-a large needle
-some water

First, using your paring knife or peeler, core out the top of a carrot.

 Next, attach the carrot to a string. We used a large needle, but it seems like you could also poke a hole with a small nail or anything else you have handy then push the string through.

 Pour some water in the top of the carrot.

 Hang the carrot in a sunny window for a few days and watch the magic unfold. Or at least that's the idea, we've yet to see for ourselves exactly what will happen, but we're hoping for something magical.

This was a simple experiment to put together, and it was really fun to talk with Erik about what might happen. After discussing many possibilities (some silly, some serious), we decided to write down our hypotheses. We made a little chart with everyone's predictions and hung it on the wall next to the window. Dad came home for his lunch break right about then, so he got to put forth a theory as well. 

 Then, as long as we had the carrots and the peeler out anyways, Erik practiced his fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination and peeled some carrots to go with our lunch. What a good little slave helper!

So what is your hypothesis? Feel free to share in the comments and we'll see who gets it right!


***3/12/15: Okay, the results are in. If you want to know how this worked out, check out this post.