Book 27, Question 66 · Video
Why do white fluffy crystals grow on brick walls?
Bricks and concrete hold tiny amounts of salts. When water seeps through the wall, it dissolves some salt. At the surface, the water evaporates and leaves the salt behind as a white, fluffy coating of crystals. This is called efflorescence. It's harmless but tells builders that moisture is moving through the wall. It can be brushed off when dry.
Read the full answer →Watch on YouTubeSee the series on Amazon
What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do white fluffy crystals grow on brick walls?
The Big Idea
Sometimes white fluffy stuff grows on brick walls! Is it mold? No, it's crystals!
Salts in Walls
Step one: Salts in Walls. Bricks and concrete hold tiny amounts of salts. When water seeps through the wall, it dissolves some salt.
At the Surface
Step two: At the Surface. At the surface, the water evaporates and leaves the salt behind as a white, fluffy coating of crystals. This is called efflorescence.
A Clue
Step three: A Clue. It's harmless but tells builders that moisture is moving through the wall. It can be brushed off when dry.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look! Bricks hold salts. Water carries them. Salts are left. White crystals grow.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! Efflorescence comes from a Latin word meaning to flower. It's harmless to see. A clue about moisture. Brush off when dry.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! Look at brick or concrete walls outdoors. Search for white deposits. Take a picture or draw them. Where on the wall are they? Why might that spot be damp?
Outro
White fluffy crystals on brick walls are called efflorescence. Water seeps through, dissolves salts, and leaves them behind as crystals when it evaporates at the surface. It's harmless but shows moisture moving. Science is amazing! What will you discover next? Every question is a new adventure, so keep wondering and keep exploring with me! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!