Daily STREAM Activity: Fireworks in a Jar

Create a light show in a jar!

Activity best for children age 3 and up

This activity is a great way to explore liquid density as well as create a memorable project! Water has a heavier density than oil, so it sinks while the oil floats on top. Food coloring is soluble in water, but not in oil, so adding food coloring to the oil slows the mixing between the colors and the water. The result is beautiful “fireworks” that form in the water! 

Materials you’ll need:

Glass jar (or other type of clear cup)

Small bowl 

Vegetable oil

Teaspoon

Mixing utensil

4 colors of food coloring

Water

Directions

STEP 1
Fill your glass ¾ of the way with water.

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STEP 2
In a small bowl, add 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 4 drops of each color of food coloring. Mix the food coloring and oil together. The food coloring will not dissolve into the oil, and will only separate into little drops.

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STEP 3
Pour the oil and food coloring mixture into the cup of water. Watch the food coloring sink into the water in firework patterns!

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Blog post by Gabby, San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum Volunteer