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.
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.
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!
Blog post by Gabby, San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum Volunteer
Share your fireworks with us on Instagram by tagging @sdcdm320!
Questions about this activity? Email education@sdcdm.org