What can change its shape to fit any container, squeeze into the narrowest places, and even defy gravity?  If you said a liquid, you are right!  In this session, we will explore the amazing properties of fluids.  We will stack colourful liquids in a jar to make a rainbow.  Then, mix a gooey batch of oobleck to learn more about non-Newtonian fluids and why viscosity matters to research and development chemists when designing a new lotion or shampoo.   

 

Preparation:  For our first activity, you will need a clear jar, five cups,  2-4 colours of food colouring, and 50-100mL of each of the following: honey, dish soap, water, olive oil, and rubbing alcohol.  For our second activity, you will need a bowl, 1 cup corn starch, and water.  

 

Expert: Lexie Griffith is a chemist whose work involves formulating cosmetics and personal care products.