Oobleck is a fascinating substance that is easy to prepare and exhibits several interesting physical properties. It’s a perfect example of a non-Newtonian fluid. Unlike regular liquids like water or alcohol, which have a constant viscosity, Oobleck behaves differently: it stays liquid when held gently but becomes solid under pressure. The name of this substance comes from the children’s book "Bartholomew and the Oobleck," written by Dr. Seuss in 1949. The book tells the story of a king who is tired of boring weather and dreams of something unusual falling from the sky. If you want to have some fun and create something completely new, follow these steps:
Part 1
Step 1. Prepare the Cornstarch.
Start by taking 1 cup (8 ounces) of cornstarch and placing it in a large bowl. You can mix the cornstarch with your hands for about a minute to get a feel for its texture.
Step 2. Add Color (Optional).
If you like, add 1-2 drops of food coloring to half a cup of water. While adding color is optional, many people prefer to do so to give Oobleck vibrant colors, making it more fun to play with. If you decide to add color, mix it with the water first before adding it to the cornstarch.
Step 3. Mix the Ingredients.
Now, mix the half cup of water (4 ounces) with the cornstarch. It’s important to maintain the proportions: for every cup of cornstarch, you should add 1 cup of water. Gradually add the water to the cornstarch to achieve a smooth consistency. If you want the mixture to be less thick, simply add more water, and if you need it to be thicker, add more cornstarch.
Step 4. Explore Oobleck.
Now it’s time to play with your Oobleck! Take it in your hands, squish it, hit it, roll it into a ball, letting it drip from your fingers back into the bowl and creating different shapes.
Step 5. Experiment.
Once you get the hang of Oobleck, try conducting a few experiments. Here are some ideas:
- Roll a ball of Oobleck by rolling it between your palms. Then stop, and watch it slowly ooze out of your hands.
- Pour a thick layer of Oobleck at the bottom of a pie plate and hit it sharply with your palm. You’ll be amazed at how the entire substance stays in place despite the hard hit!
- For added drama, place Oobleck in a bag or plastic container and jump on it!
Step 6. Clean Up.
To clean up Oobleck, use warm water to wash it off your hands, clothes, and table. Don’t forget to rinse out the bowl, but be careful not to wash too much Oobleck down the sink to avoid clogging the drain.
Step 7. How to Store Oobleck.
You can store Oobleck in an airtight container. This way, you can take it out anytime and continue playing. When you’re done having fun, don’t wash it down the sink, as it can clog the plumbing. Instead, throw it in the trash bin.
