Science project
What Happens When Oil and Water Get Together?
Grade Level: Preschool through 1st Grade; Type: Physics
Objective:
See what happens when two fluids that have different densities get together.
Materials:
- Disposable cup
- Water
- Food color (any dark color)
- Small funnel
- Vegetable oil
- Pencil and paper, and a crayon or colored pencil that matches the food color (alternatively: a camera)
- One test tube with cap
- Optional: some old newspaper and a smock
Experimental Procedure:
- You might want to do this experiment over a sink or some old newspaper, as it can get messy! (Also, a smock might be a good idea.)
- If you are using the paper-and-pencil option, use the pencil to draw a picture of the test tube on the paper.
- Fill the cup partway with water and put a few drops of the food color in it. Swirl it around until it’s well mixed.
- Use the funnel to fill the test tube halfway with the colored water.
- Add vegetable oil to the test tube.
- Hold the test tube still for a minute or two and observe what happens to the water and oil.
- Record and present results.
Terms/Concepts: fluids, convection, cumulus clouds, upwelling, density
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Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.
Education.com provides the Science Fair Project Ideas for informational purposes only. Education.com does not make any guarantee or representation regarding the Science Fair Project Ideas and is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, caused by your use of such information. By accessing the Science Fair Project Ideas, you waive and renounce any claims against Education.com that arise thereof. In addition, your access to Education.com's website and Science Fair Project Ideas is covered by Education.com's Privacy Policy and site Terms of Use, which include limitations on Education.com's liability.
Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.
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