Fun Science Experiment: Weathering with Oobleck
Overview
Engage your kids in a fun and educational science experiment that explores the concept of weathering using a non-Newtonian fluid called Oobleck!
What You’ll Need
For the Oobleck:
- A large container
- 2 cups corn starch
- 1 cup water
- Food dye (optional)
Dry Ice “Instrument”:
- Dry ice (Handle with gloves!)
- Metal spoon
Billions of Bubbles:
- Cups/containers of various sizes/shapes
- Water
- Soap
Activities
Oobleck Slime
- STEP 1: Measure 1 cup of water and add food dye (if using).
- STEP 2: In a large container, add 2 cups of cornstarch.
- STEP 3: Pour the colored water into the cornstarch and mix with your hands. (Mess alert! Have paper towels handy.)
- STEP 4: Compress the Oobleck into a ball and observe how it quickly turns back into a liquid.
- STEP 5: Store any leftover Oobleck in the fridge. Dispose of in the trash when done.
Dry Ice “Instrument”
- STEP 1: Place a small piece of dry ice on the table.
- STEP 2: Use a spoon to press on the dry ice and listen for the silly sound it makes.
Billions of Bubbles
- STEP 1: Fill containers with water and a little soap.
- STEP 2: Drop dry ice into the containers and watch bubbles form!
How It Works
Oobleck:
Combining cornstarch and water creates a non-Newtonian fluid that behaves like both a solid and a liquid depending on force applied.
Dry Ice:
Dry ice is frozen CO₂ that sublimates from solid to gas, creating bubbles in soapy water and producing sounds when interacting with the spoon.
Want More Science Fun?
Catch meteorologist Sarah Spivey on GMSA@9 every Wednesday for more demonstrations! Learn more here.
This experiment not only makes learning about weathering fun but also allows kids to observe scientific principles in action!
