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Fireworks in a Glass


 

Most experiments utilize a jar for this experiment. I did not have a jar handy so I used a regular drinking glass. You will receive the same result as long as its in glass cylinder. 

What creates the fireworks display?

I will not get too technical (science isn't my thing) but this is a simple density demonstration. The food coloring dissolves into the water but does not dissolve into the oil. The food coloring floats at the surface of the glass since the oil is less dense than the water. However, the colors will soon sink to the bottom since they are heavier than the oil. The firework display occurs as the colors dissolve into the water. Isn't it cool?

What you will need

  • water
  • oil
  • glass (drinking glass or mason jar)
  • small bowl
  • food coloring
  • fork


Experiment Directions

1. Fill your glass or jar 3/4 of the way full with warm water.


2. In a separate bowl, mix a 3 tablespoons of oil.




3. Choose 3-4 colors of food coloring. I used all four food colors. I added a few drops of each color (red, yellow, blue, green) into the bowl. 




4. Use a fork to mix the food coloring and oil together. Do this gently. 



5. Pour the food coloring mixture into the jar. 






6. Boom! (not literal, of course) Watch the explosion! The colors will expand and move around the glass. 




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