This educational activity is not only for the little ones, adults seem to be just as mesmerized with the "swimming" sand, especially when it is colored to give a beautiful rainbow effect. I do these types of activities with my toddler often, simply because he would drive me berserk if I didn't find things that would keep him out of trouble! But I love the educational aspect of each activity and the fact that he gets to learn through having fun!

This little science "trick" is suitable for parents to do at home with their own kids, or, if you are a teacher, this can also be done as a group activity for all to enjoy.

Image Source

Magic Under Water Sand

 

My favorite activities are those that are super affordable, this makes my purse smile. It is not only easy on the pocket, but it is very likely that you already have all the ingredients and materials stored away in your cupboards.

Here's what you will need:

• Sand, plain or colored
• Water
• A clear bowl or vase
• Baking tray
• Wax paper
• Spoon
• Fabric protector spray (like Scotch Guard)

Image Source

Instructions:

1. Line your baking tray with wax paper.
2. Spread the sand over the wax paper
3. Spray a heavy coat of fabric protector on to the sand and leave to stand for 10 minutes.
4. Mix the sand up a bit and then spray with another heavy coat of Scotch Guard
5. Leave the sand to dry for about one hour.
6. If you are using colored sand, pour each color into a separate container.
7. Fill your vase or clear bowl with water.
8. Pour your sand into the water and watch the magic!
9. The water will fall to the bottom and clump together, instead of sinking to the bottom to form one layer.
10. Get the kids to pull some of the water out of the sand, it will separate in their hands, but clump back together again once they release it back into the water.

Image Source

The Science Behind It

 

This is a great demonstration to introduce students to the properties of substances that are hydrophobic and hydrophilic. Hydrophobic substances do not mix with water. The term “water-fearing” is often used to describe the word hydrophobic. Hydrophilic substances, on the other hand, are “water-loving.” Notice how the drops of food coloring color only the water and not the oil. Since oil is hydrophobic, the oil did not mix with the food coloring or the water. What are other examples of oil and water not mixing? A newly waxed car will make water form beads on its surface. Oil from cars will float on top of puddles. Oil and vinegar salad dressings need to be shaken up before using. So, how does Magic Sand work? The surface of sand grains is made wet by water, which means that water molecules are attracted to sand grains. Remember, this water-loving property of sand is called a hydrophilic property. Magic Sand is regular sand that has been coated with an oil-like substance that is water-hating or hydrophobic. 

Source link: https://teachingmama.org/underwater-magic-sand/

Enjoy this little bit of fun with your kids, it has the possibility of keeping them busy and intrigued for a good amount of time! One of my favourites! 

Much love - @sweetpea

(bringing you original content)