Oobleck is an easy to make that has some interesting physical properties. Oobleck is an example of a non-Newtonian fluid. Many common liquids like water and alcohol have a constant viscosity. But Oobleck can be liquid when held loosely in your hand, but can also act like a solid if hit more violently.
Children have always enjoyed playing with goo from the minute they learned to eat by themselves, picking up food, and smashing it on the top of the highchair table, making a gooey mess. Making goo is great for a rainy day play with the little ones. Especially when the bath is ready.
The name Oobleck is borrowed from the Dr. Seuss book, Bartholomew and the Oobleck about a similar substance. Dr. Seuss's Oobleck was green.
Step 1
Place cornstarch into a bowl.
Step 2
Stir in water. For the desired consistiency, use about 2 parts cornstarch to one part water.
Step 3
Add a few drops of food coloring until you like the color.
Step 4
Add more water to make it thinner or more cornstarch to make it thicker.
Step 5
Take it out and play with it!
Tips
- Store in an air-tight container.
- It is fun to try to roll your goo into a ball. If you try, it will just melt back into your hand.
- If you put in food coloring: After washing your hands, you may notice a little bit of color left on your hands. Don't worry. It should go away in a day or two.
- Anything put into the slime (like little toy dinosaurs) can be easily washed with soap and water.
Warnings
- Oobleck isn't poisonous, but it tastes awful. Wash your hands after playing.
- Wear old clothes, as Oobleck tends to get messy.
- Don't worry too much if it gets on something; it will come out with a little water.
- Lay a couple newspapers on the floor so it doesn't get all over the floor or table.
Things You'll Need
- Cornstarch (cornflour)
- Water
- Bowl
- Food coloring (optional)
