Dry Ice for Science Experiments – Everything You Need to Know

Inside: Learn how dry ice is sold, the difference between slabs and pellets, where to purchase, safety precautions, and more!

Using dry ice for science experiments is one way to WOW your students!

It makes a show-stopping Halloween science activity, an amazing introduction to the phenomena of sublimation, and takes observations of matter to a whole new level!

Each year, I set up dry ice sublimation stations for Halloween, and it’s always an unbelievable hit!

Here are some of the questions that I get asked most frequently.

How is dry ice sold?

Dry ice can be sold in blocks or pellets. For science experiments in the classroom, I prefer to purchase the pellets. They’re “pre-cut” and ready to go!

A pellet is cylindrical and about half an inch in diameter. Its lengths vary.

Dry ice slab vs pellets

Pellets can be easier to handle for activities, which I love! But remember that the pellets tend to “disappear” faster than the slab if you don’t use it quickly enough.

Where can you buy dry ice?

Call ahead to verify, but most Kroger, Walmart, and Costco stores sell dry ice.

I got hooked on dry ice when the cookie dough from our school fundraiser arrived packed in dry ice. Our science department fights over every shipment – it’s free fun!

Is dry ice for science experiments dangerous?

Dry ice can pose safety risks if safety precautions are not taken.

Dry ice is very cold! It’s 109.3 degrees below zero, to be exact. For that reason, you should not touch it with your bare hands. This can cause frostbite on exposed skin that touches it.

Dry ice placed in a sealed container can build up pressure. The expanding gases can cause the sealed container to “explode.” This can be dangerous, especially if the dry ice is placed in a glass container.

What are some safety precautions for dry ice science experiments?

• Use tongs to handle dry ice.
• Do not hold the dry ice in your hand for a long period of time. Touching it for a second or two will not hurt, but if you try to hold it, it can freeze your skin and feel like a burn. 
• Never put dry ice into a closed glass container. 
• Do NOT put dry ice into your mouth. 
• Use appropriate eyewear.

How much does dry ice cost?

At the time of publishing, our supplier sells dry ice for $3.30 per pound. As more is purchased, the price drops. This may vary in your area.

One pound of dry ice pellets is approximately “a handful” of dry ice.

How do you store dry ice?

• It’s all in the planning! Since dry ice “melts” over time, it’s best to purchase it as close as possible to the time you will use it.
• Store the dry ice in an insulated cooler. Avoid a locking lid. A Styrofoam cooler is a great option because the lid allows the build-up of pressure to release.
• Be sure to keep the lid on until you need to remove pieces for the activity.
• If space is in the cooler, you may want to pack it with newspapers to insulate it and help it last longer.
• If possible, it’s best to call ahead and pick it up the morning you use it.

What is your favorite science experiment for dry ice?

All of them! Seriously! I love to demo dry ice for my students and then let them explore dry ice in stations!

I’ve developed a set of six sublimation stations for students to explore. This time-saving, high-interest activity has everything you need!

No stress – you can purchase the ice, set up the lab, and let your students investigate!

In this resource you will find:

• Dry Ice Background Information
• Materials list (household items)
• Dry Ice Demo Directions
• Explanation of each phenomenon for teachers
• 6 directed stations
• 1 design your own experiment station
• Student handout
• Black and white version for ease of printing