This simulation shows how copper sulphate crystals grow over time. We're using a 10% copper sulphate solution at 25°C (room temperature).
Use the time buttons to see how the crystals change. You can measure the crystals with the ruler at the bottom. Touch and drag the ruler to move it around.
Watch the crystals grow huge over 4 days - they'll get about 12 times bigger! Remember, real crystals might grow differently, but this gives you a good idea of how it works.
When copper sulphate dissolves in water, it separates into copper ions (Cu²⁺) and sulphate ions (SO₄²⁻). These ions float freely in the solution, like tiny swimmers in a pool.
As water slowly evaporates, the solution becomes more concentrated. When there are too many ions in too little water (we say it becomes supersaturated), the ions start coming back together. They arrange themselves in a regular pattern, forming the beautiful blue crystals you see growing in the simulation.
The crystals grow larger over time because more ions keep attaching to the existing crystal structure. Think of it like building with Lego blocks - once you have a starting point, you can keep adding more pieces in an organized way. The regular pattern of ion arrangement gives the crystals their characteristic shape!