Earthworm Lifecycle

A species of the earthworm can be found on every continent in the world. They burrow through soil and help keep it healthy. Some species of earthworm can grow over 13 feet long, all though most are a lot smaller than that. Earthworms have been dissected in science rooms throughout the world, although if dissection is not an option, you can use lifelike plastic figures to represent the earthworm lifecycle.

Earthworms have both organs needed for reproduction; the term used for this is hermaphrodite. When earthworms mate they lay next to each other and pass mucus like substance that allows each worms organs to be fertilized. After the earthworms mate they form eggs inside their bodies, then the worms separate and form cocoons which seal when they rolls off of the worm. The cocoon is buried underground and the hardened walls protect the forming worm.

The worms hatch as smaller earthworms that lack reproductive organs; this is the main difference between newly hatched worms and the fully developed. The worms start to develop reproductive organs after they are hatched. They are able to use their reproductive organs at around 12 months. Earthworms can sometimes live for more than 10 years depending on the species. In the United States earthworms range in color from red to brown, and in other countries they can be blue or green.

Check Out These Large Earthworms

What is Magic Snow?

Magic snow is an absorbent polymer that is safe and non-toxic, it has the ability to expand up to 40 times its original volume. The snow starts out as a simple powder that looks similar to sugar or salt. The magic happens when water or other liquid is introduced to the magic snow, which quickly expands to absorb the liquid.

How is it Used?

Hollywood uses it for special effects, many people use it to decorate for parties, and thanks to its low price you can use
magic snow for fun. When using magic snow, use it on a dish, bowl, cup, test tube, or anything else that will help you contain the magic snow. First place the magic snow into the container of your choosing, next sprinkle a small amount of magic snow into the container. Then add a small amount of water and watch it grow. Use more in the following trials once an idea of the amount the magic snow expands is gained.

Example





Do not let magic snow into drains or pipes; it will expand causing them to clog. The best way to dispose of magic snow absorbent material is to put it in a plastic bag and then in the trash. Do not rinse the container you use for magic snow creation in the sink, even a little can cause clog. However if you do accidentally clog a drain, a small amount of bleach will clear the drain.

Gadget Science was created to help parents, teachers, home schoolers, and anyone else interested in getting the most out of science activities with their kids.  Gadget Science is sponsored by Heath Scientific .  Heath Scientific is a family owned business based in Cedar Hill, TX and is run by former teachers.  Though the information in this site is for use with science materials and supplies from any supplier, we always welcome you to visit our online store or simply call us for information, instruction, or to purchase supplies.

Enjoy Gadget Science.  Science is our passion and we hope that the young people in your life will learn and enjoy it as much as we do!