How to Make Oobleck: 8 Steps
Oobleck is a fascinating non-Newtonian fluid that acts both as a liquid and a solid. It’s named after a substance in the famous Dr. Seuss book, “Bartholomew and the Oobleck.” This unique substance is fun to play with and easy to make at home, using just two simple ingredients. Follow these 8 steps to create your very own batch of Oobleck!
1. Gather materials: All you need to make Oobleck is cornstarch and water. You may also want to have food coloring on hand to add a pop of color to your creation.
2. Measure your ingredients: To make a small batch of Oobleck, you’ll need 1 cup of cornstarch and approximately 1/2 cup of water. If you want to make more of it, simply adjust the measurements while maintaining the 2:1 ratio of cornstarch to water.
3. Mix the cornstarch and water: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch and water. Start with just under 1/2 cup of water, as you may not need all of it.
4. Add food coloring (optional): If desired, add a few drops of your favorite food coloring to the mixture before mixing further.
5. Stir the mixture: Stir the cornstarch and water mixture thoroughly until it becomes difficult to stir. At this point, you should see that when force is applied, the mixture becomes more solid-like but will still flow like a liquid without force.
6. Make adjustments (if necessary): If your Oobleck is too liquidy or too solid, adjust by adding small amounts of cornstarch or water until you achieve the desired consistency.
7. Play and experiment: Now that your Oobleck is ready, have fun playing with it! You can try picking it up and forming it into a ball or letting it run through your fingers like a liquid. Experiment with the properties of this non-Newtonian fluid by applying different amounts of force.
8. Storage and cleanup: When you’re finished playing with your Oobleck, store it in an airtight container. To clean up, wash your hands and any utensils or containers used with soap and warm water. If Oobleck dries on surfaces, simply use a cloth soaked in warm water to remove it.
Now you know how to make Oobleck in 8 simple steps! This amazing substance provides hours of entertainment and teaches valuable lessons about science, making it a perfect activity for kids (and adults) of all ages.