Name/Class/Date ___________________________________________________________________________
Earth Science
Chapter 7 - Section 1 - Earth's Layers
Inferring Lab
How do scientists know what Earth's interior looks like? It is possible to dig for direct evidence. But, this direct evidence can only
be gathered for a short distance through the top of the crust. Going to the center of the Earth is only possible in science fiction. So,
how have the layers been determined? Scientists are able to determine and learn about the Earth's interior through inferring. This is
called indirect evidence. They use many clues to learn about what isn't possible to actually see. Today you will use inferring to
determine the contents of sealed film canisters.
Objective: To investigate how scientists gather evidence about the Earth's interior.
Part 1
Materials: 3 opaque sealed film canisters filled with a mystery substance.
Procedures:
1. Pick up one of the canisters.
2. Gather evidence about what is in the canister. You may tap, roll, or shake it. DO NOT OPEN YOUR CANISTER!
3. Record the number of top of the canister and your observations below.
4. Repeat with the other two canisters.
Observations
Canister #_____
Canister #_____
Based on your observations, what do you think is in each canister?
#_____ #_____ #_____ 1. What differences were noticed between each canister. Suggest at least 2 ideas.
2. Apart from their outside appearance, are the canisters similar in any way?
3. How did you obtain your evidence/observations?
4. How could you prove your idea without opening the canister?
Canister #_____
Part 2
Procedures:
1. Examine all the possible contents for each opaque canister and the three empty canisters.
2. Use your previous observations and the original sealed, opaque canisters to create your own duplicate canister.
3. Record your content theories below.
Content theory for each canister:
Canister #_____
Canister #_____
Canister #_____
1. How did you determine which materials matched your original containers?
2. How did you know your new canister matched your sealed canister?
3. Exchange your model canisters and the sealed, opaque original canisters with your tablemates. Do they
agree with your content selections? Why or why not?
Conclusion:
1. How is a canister like the inside of the Earth? Suggest at least 2 ideas.
2. How is this activity similar to how scientists determine the Earth's interior layers? Suggest at least 2 ideas.
3. What is the evidence scientists use to know about the center of the Earth?