Build a Bathtub Toy Raft Powered by Surface Tension

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Here's how.

Active Time

10-20 minutes

Total Project Time

10-20 minutes

Key Concepts

molecules, surface tension, surfactants

Two toy goldfish and a small white raft float in a pool of water

Introduction

Have you ever wondered why a water strider can walk on water? Or how detergent can clean your dishes? If you look around you carefully, you can find dozens of similarly interesting phenomena that are all linked to the surface tension of water. In this science activity, you will make a little toy raft that is actually powered by surface tension, and use your vessel to investigate how surface tension works!

Credits

Teisha Rowland, PhD, Science Buddies

This activity is not appropriate for use as a science fair project. Good science fair projects have a stronger focus on controlling variables, taking accurate measurements, and analyzing data. To find a science fair project that is just right for you, browse our library of over 1,200 Science Fair Project Ideas or use the Topic Selection Wizard to get a personalized project recommendation.

Next: Materials

Materials

A small, flat piece of Styrofoam, at least about three inches by three inches. For example, this could be part of a take-out container or a meat packaging tray.
A toothpick
Kitchen sponge. Use either a fresh sponge or rinse the sponge thoroughly with water to make sure it does not have any soap in it.
Liquid dish soap or liquid laundry detergent
Water
Large basin, sink, or bathtub
Scissors
Utility knife or X-ACTO knife
Optional: Medicine dropper and ruler

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