Mummification Family Worksheets
Directions: Your families’ job is to create a mummified hot dog by conducting an experiment to better understand and replicate the process of mummification as it relates to ancient Egyptian techniques. Follow the procedures below and once you are finished, answer the questions at the bottom of the page. Have fun mummifying!

Materials:

  • One regular size hotdog
  • Large plastic container with lid
  • Kitchen scale
  • 8 packages of baking soda

Experimental Procedure:

  1. Measure the hotdog, weigh it and take a photo. Record that information in a notebook
  2. Line the bottom of the plastic container with at least 1 inch of baking soda
  3. Place the hotdog in the center of the container.
  4. Cover the hotdog completely with another layer of baking soda
  5. Place the container in a dark location away from air vents
  6. Do not open the lid for 14 days.
  7. On the 14th day, open the lid and examine the hotdog.
  8. How has the hotdog changed? Does it smell? What does it weigh? Has the color changed? Compare your notes from the raw hotdog.

Questions to research:

  1. 1. What is mummification?



  2. When did the Egyptians start mummifying bodies?



  3. What process was used by the Egyptians?



  4. How did the Egyptians use natron salt?




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