Liquid Density Column – STEM Activity

Did you know that not only can solid objects sink or float, but liquids can, too? It is actually possible to stack different liquids on top of each other in layers. The key is that all the different layers must have different densities. You can stack them by either picking several liquids with a range of densities, or by varying the density of one liquid by adding chemicals like sugar or salt to it. If you choose colored liquids, or add food coloring to each layer, you can even create a whole… Read more

When discussing material properties, most of us usually think of solid materials and material properties such as hardness, flexibility, or strength. However, liquids are characterized by distinct properties, too. Some of these properties overlap with those of solids, like density or transparency, but others are more specific to liquids. Viscosity—the resistance of a fluid to flow—and surface tension, are two examples of properties that are specifically used to characterize liquids.… Read more

Have you ever wondered why some liquids mix together easily, like when you mix different juices to make a fruit punch, while others do not mix at all, like oil and water? What happens to liquids when they are mixed depends on their mixing behavior. Some liquids blend, whereas others form separate layers. If you do it right, you can even stack liquids on top of each other just like solid objects! Want to see for yourself? In this science project, you will investigate the mixing behavior of… Read more

An experienced chemistry professor used to say that it took about one explosion per week to maintain college students' attention in chemistry lectures. At that rate, we'd get in pretty big trouble with a lot of parents and teachers! Don't worry, we still have lots of bubbles, fizzes, bangs, and color changes for you to explore. … Read more