In this instructable, I will be showing you how to perform a simple science experiment in which you can create precipitation in a closed container that models the way rain occurs in nature. This experiment is simple, quick to perform, and inexpensive.

You will need the following supplies:

One plastic or glass jar

Saran or plastic wrap

Ice

A microwave to heat up the water

Water

The experiment should take no longer than 15-20 minutes. Supplies should cost no more than seven dollars, and you should be able to do this with no assistance necessary. Be careful with hot water as it can cause burns! Also, if using a plastic jar, do not heat water in plastic jar and use a separate glass instead!

Step 1: Heat Water

Heat up about half a cup of water in your microwave for 2 minutes. It may require more time so that the condensation process works well, and varies depending on your microwave.

Step 2: Water in Container

After you have heated the water, carefully pour it into your container.

Step 3: Cover the Container

Shortly after pouring the hot water into your container, cover it with Saran or plastic wrap and let it sit for 3 minutes.

Step 4: Place Ice Cubes on Top of Saran/plastic Wrap

After few minutes have passed since covering your container, place one or two ice cubes on top of your plastic wrap and wait 6-8 minutes.

Step 5: Observe the Precipitation

After about ten minutes remove your ice cubes and see the condensation that has accumulated underneath the plastic wrap in your container. You've made rain!

Step 6: Conclusion

After you have completed the experiment, you should be able to see the precipitation through the plastic wrap. If you can't, it is probably because your water was too cold, or you did not leave the ice cubes on top of the plastic wrap for long enough.

Please note that melting from the ice might collect on top of the saran wrap, however the important part of the experiment is underneath the saran wrap, where the condensation has accumulated. Despite the water accumulating on top of the saran wrap, it is good material to be able to see the condensation underneath it.

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