We have done our part in coaxing a Snow Day from school. This winter has not yielded enough precipitation to justify the cancellation of academics in our fair city, but with a little science "magic" Hoggatteers were able to cause snow to appear in our classroom. Already, the temperatures have started sinking again, and we can only hope that the forecast continues to favor some snow for Sunday evening and Monday. Perhaps we can lure some snow our way after all!
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In reality, this "snow" is a superabsorbent polymer called sodium polyacrylate. It is a derivative of the substance used in diapers. The white powder expands when soaking up water, growing to one hundred times its original size - a pretty impressive change. The reaction also causes the expanded substance to feel cold to the touch.
