This experiment allow students to create two different bubble solutions, create a hypothesis and collect data on the effectiveness of the solutions. The first solution is made by combining 1 cup plus 1 tbsp. of water with 1 tbsp. of dish detergent. Mix thoroughly and set aside. Create the second blend by mixing 1 cup of water with 1 tbsp. of dish detergent and 1 tbsp. of corn syrup. Combine these ingredients well and set aside.
Create a hypothesis based on the different properties of each solution on which one will produce larger and longer lasting bubbles. With a bubble wand, blow bubbles from each solution and record the data. If possible, attempt to measure the bubbles while they float in the air and use a stop watch to record how long they stay intact. Create a chart of graph that illustrates the different solutions and the data that was gathered on their effectiveness.
A colloid polymer occurs when molecules from a solid are mixed with liquid. The molecules from the solid are too large to dissolve but small enough to remain suspended in the liquid. This project will allow fifth grade students to create their own interesting, bouncy colloid polymer from borax, white glue and water.
After discussing the properties and characteristics of a polymer, divide the students into groups four. Give each group a cup, two glass jars with lids, a 1/4 cup of borax, 5 cups of water and 1 cup of white glue. Borax is safe for students to touch. However, it can be toxic if ingested, so adult supervision is necessary. In a large glass jar, have students combine 4 cups of water and the borax and mix until it is dissolved. In the other jar they will combine the glue and other cup of water by placing the lid on tightly and shaking. Students can add food coloring to the glue and water if they would like. To make the putty substance, children will pour 1/4 of the glue mixture to the borax and water and stir as they are adding. The substance will thicken immediately. To make enough for the entire group, simply wash out the container and mix 4 cups of water and a 1/4 cup of borax again. Add another 1/4 cup of the glue mixture and repeat until all students have putty of their own.
For this experiment, students will learn the influence that sodium chloride, also know as table salt, has on the temperature of boiling water. Allow students to bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Measure the temperature of the water at boiling and record it. Add 1 tbsp. of salt to the water. After 30 seconds, take the temperature again, record it and any variation. This process can be repeated multiple times in order to collect more data. Students should chart their findings and answer questions about what happened to the temperature and why.
The molecules in water are very strongly attracted to each other. Water will mix with other things, but not oil because the molecules in oil are also very strongly attracted to their same kind. This experiment will demonstrate the inability for these two liquid to mix with each other. Using a 20 oz. pop bottle, add one cup of water, a few drops of food coloring and 2 tbsp. of oil. Screw the cap on and shake it vigorously. Record what the results were and answer questions about what happened and why.
Unscrew the cap and add a tbsp. of dish detergent. Replace the cap and shake it. What happened this time and why? Create a hypothesis and research the answer. Record all of the data on a chart or graph to display.