Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

So for the project I'm doing which is Bubble-ology it requires glycerin and im wondering if glue or canola oil will work just as well?

Ari - Most bubble formulas seem to use a various proportions of liquid detergent, glycerin, surfactants and other film strength and surface tension modifiers. As a grandfather I've experimented with most of the fundamental formulas found on the web. Glycerin seems to be an important common component. Why are you trying to alter or substitute for this material? It seems readily available at most pharmacies. I don't think vegetable oils or glue are likely substitutes. In fact, the combination of oil and detergent seem to be polar opposite in trying to achieve a strong surface tension material. The detergent will emulsify and weaken the vegetable oil component, even though it will create a miscible liquid.

Rick Marz