How To Convert Salt Water Into Freshwater (Drinking Water)

You can try this simple experiment to change salt water into freshwater. This is a process called "desalination." The water evaporates and leaves the salt behind, so the water you collect in your collection glass is clean drinking water. Make sure it is a sunny day before you begin this experiment.

Step 1

Fill the bowl about halfway with water. Add a few spoonfuls of salt to the water. Make the water as salty as you like. Stir the salt into the water to make sure it is mixed.

Step 2

Place the drinking glass inside the bowl. If the salt water flows into the cup, remove some of the water.

Step 3

Stretch plastic cling wrap over the top of the bowl. Make sure it is tightly wrapped all the way around the bowl.

Step 4

Place a small weight in the center of the plastic wrap, over the cup. Use a small rock or any small, heavy object. This will weigh down the plastic wrap just enough to allow the water to drip into the glass.

Step 5

Place the bowl somewhere sunny. Leave it there for a few hours. After a few hours, you should have clean water in the drinking glass, and a layer of salt on the inside of the bowl.