walking oobleck experiment

May 2, 2011

It's a Solid... It's a Liquid... It's Oobleck!

Bring Science Home: Activity 1

By Katherine Harmon

Getty Images

Key concepts Liquids and solids Viscosity Pressure From National Science Education Standards : Properties of objects and materials

Introduction Why is it so hard to get out of quicksand? Is it a solid? Is it a liquid? Can it be both? In this activity, you will make a substance that is similar to quicksand—but much more fun. Play around with it and find out how it acts differently from a normal liquid and a normal solid. Other, more familiar substances change states (from solids to liquids to gases) when we change the temperature, such as freezing water into ice or boiling it away into steam. But this simple mixture shows how changes in pressure, instead of temperature, can change the properties of some materials. Background Applying pressure to the mixture increases its viscosity (thickness). A quick tap on the surface of Oobleck will make it feel hard, because it forces the cornstarch particles together. But dip your hand slowly into the mix, and see what happens—your fingers slide in as easily as through water. Moving slowly gives the cornstarch particles time to move out of the way. Oobleck and other pressure-dependent substances (such as Silly Putty and quicksand) are not liquids such as water or oil. They are known as non-Newtonian fluids. This substance's funny name comes from a Dr. Seuss book called Bartholomew and the Oobleck .

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Materials •    1 cup of water •    1 to 2 cups of cornstarch •    Mixing bowl •    Food coloring (optional) Preparation •    Pour one cup of cornstarch into the mixing bowl, and dip your hands into it. Can you feel how smooth the powder is? It's made up of super-fine particles. •    Now pour the water in, mixing slowly as you go. Keep adding more water until the mixture becomes thick (and hardens when you tap on it). Add more cornstarch if it gets too runny, and more water if it becomes too thick. •    Add a few drops of food coloring if desired. (If you want to turn your Oobleck another hue, it’s easier to add the coloring to the water before you mix it with the cornstarch.) •    Oobleck is non-toxic, but please use caution when doing any science activity. Be careful not to get it in your eyes, and wash your hands after handling the Oobleck. Procedure •    Roll up your sleeves and prepare to get messy! Drop your hands quickly into the Oobleck, then slowly lower your hands into it. Notice the difference! •    Hold a handful in your open palm— what happens? •    Try squeezing it in your fist or rolling it between your hands— how does it behave differently? •    Move your fingers through the mixture slowly, then try moving them faster. •    What else can you do to test the mixture's properties? •    Extra: If you have a large plastic bin or tub, you can make a big batch of Oobleck. Multiply the quantity of each ingredient by 10 or more and mix it up. Take off your shoes and socks and try standing in the Oobleck! Can you walk across it without sinking in? Let you feet sink down and then try wiggling your toes. What happens?

Read on for observations, results and more resources.

Observations and results What is happening when you squeeze the Oobleck? What is happening when you release the pressure? Does the Oobleck remind you of anything else? The Oobleck mixture isn't your typical liquid—or solid. The cornstarch-and-water mixture creates a fluid that acts more like quicksand than water: applying force (squeezing or tapping it) causes it to become thicker. If you were trapped in a tub of Oobleck, what would be the best way to escape? Share your Oobleck observations and results! Leave a comment below or share your photos and feedback on Scientific American 's Facebook page . Cleanup Wash hands with water. Add plenty of extra water to the mixture before pouring it down the drain. Wipe up any dried cornstarch with a dry cloth before cleaning up any remaining residue with a damp sponge. More to explore " What is Jell-O? " from Scientific American " Ask the Experts: What Is Quicksand? " from Scientific American " States of Matter " overview from Idaho Public Television's Dialogue for Kids Slime and Goo activities from the American Chemical Society's Science for Kids Oobleck, Slime & Dancing Spaghetti: Twenty terrific at-home science experiments inspired by favorite children's books by Jennifer Williams, ages 4–8 The Everything Kids' Easy Science Experiments Book: Explore the world of science through quick and easy experiments! By J. Elizabeth Mills, ages 9–12 Up next… The Magic of Gravity What you'll need •    Coin •    Bottle, jar or canister with a small top opening (larger—but not too much bigger—than the coin) •    3- by-5-inch note card or other sturdy piece of paper •    Scissors •    Tape •    Pen or pencil •    Water (optional)

Oobleck: the Dr. Seuss Science Experiment

Introduction: Oobleck: the Dr. Seuss Science Experiment

Step 1: Materials

Step 2: Mix It Up!

Step 3: Add Food Coloring

Step 4: Play With It!

Step 5: Oobleck Videos

Still not convinced you want to make it? Play this video to see it in action.

Oobleck Walk: Non-Newtonian Fun You Can Stand On – A DIY Science Adventure

Table of Contents

Oobleck Walk: Stepping onto a surface that solidifies under pressure might sound like something out of a science fiction novel, but it’s a fascinating real-world phenomenon thanks to Oobleck. This intriguing mixture is not your ordinary liquid; it’s a non-Newtonian fluid that defies what we typically expect from liquids and solids. By creating Oobleck , you interact with a substance that acts like a solid when you apply force, such as walking or hitting it, yet flows like a liquid when untouched.

The magic of Oobleck lies in its simplicity and the science behind its behaviour. Made from just cornstarch and water, Oobleck is an accessible way to experience and understand complex scientific principles . It transforms before your eyes, providing a hands-on demonstration of shear thickening, which makes it an excellent educational tool as well as a source of fun. Michelle Connolly, a founder and educational consultant with a love for making learning fun, says, “Oobleck is a perfect example of how simple kitchen ingredients can create a ‘eureka’ moment for young scientists.”

Key Takeaways

• Oobleck is a non-Newtonian fluid that behaves like a solid under force and a liquid at rest.
• Its captivating properties offer an engaging way to learn scientific concepts.
• Easily made at home, Oobleck provides both educational experiences and entertainment.

Discovering Oobleck

Before we dive into the fascinating world of Oobleck, it’s important to know that it is a type of non-Newtonian fluid , which means its viscosity can change under pressure, allowing you to literally stand on it, challenging your perceptions of liquids and solids .

The Science Behind Oobleck

Oobleck’s peculiar consistency is what sets it apart—it behaves as both a solid and a liquid . When you apply pressure, the molecules of the cornstarch and water mixture in Oobleck align, making it act like a solid. Remove the pressure, and it flows like a liquid. This dual behaviour is unlike standard Newtonian fluids , such as water, whose viscosity remains the same regardless of the forces applied to them.

Historical Context: Isaac Newton and Non-Newtonian Fluids

Isaac Newton’s laws of motion and his studies on fluid mechanics laid the groundwork for categorising substances like water as “Newtonian.” However, substances that defy these laws, like Oobleck, are termed “non-Newtonian.” These fluids don’t follow Newton’s law of viscosity, and their unpredictable nature was first recorded in the modern sense in the 20th century, long after Newton’s time.

Michelle Connolly, founder of LearningMole and educational consultant with 16 years of classroom experience, often says, “The magic of Oobleck is not just in its strange behaviour, but in the curiosity it sparks in learners of all ages.” Oobleck serves as an excellent educational tool to introduce complex scientific concepts in a practical, hands-on manner.

Your understanding of the world of fluids is now richer with the knowledge of Oobleck, a fascinating substance that stretches our imagination and questions the conventional understanding of liquids and solids.

Creating Your Own Oobleck

Crafting Oobleck is an engaging activity that lets you experience a curious state of matter that is neither a standard liquid nor a solid. You’ll enjoy creating this mixture, which hardens under pressure yet flows like a liquid when at rest.

Ingredients Needed

To make Oobleck, you will need the following:

• Cornflour : This is the main ingredient that gives Oobleck its unique properties.
• Water : Required to mix with the cornflour to create the Oobleck.
• Food Colouring (Optional) : This is for adding a vibrant touch to your creation.
• 2 cups of cornflour
• 1 cup of water
• Food colouring of your choice

Step-by-Step Guide

Here is a simple guide to help you create your own Oobleck:

• Measure Your Ingredients : Use measuring cups to get the correct quantities of cornflour and water.
• Mix the Cornflour and Water : Gradually add water to the cornflour while stirring. The mixture should be hard to stir but still runny.
• Test the Consistency : Press the mixture with your fingers to see if it becomes solid, then let it run through your fingers.

Oobleck with Food Colouring

To make coloured Oobleck, follow these steps:

• Add a few drops of your chosen food colouring to the water before mixing it with the cornflour.
• Stir the mixture until the colour is evenly distributed.

Michelle Connolly, the founder of LearningMole, emphasises the fun element of this experiment: “Playing with Oobleck is a fantastic way to make learning about states of matter hands-on and exciting.”

Oobleck Experiments

Oobleck offers a perfect union of fun and learning through science experiments that you can try at home or in the classroom. These hands-on activities reveal the unique properties of non-Newtonian fluids and are suitable for all ages, from inquisitive kids to playful adults.

Recommended Oobleck Trials

Making Oobleck : To start, you’ll only need cornflour and water. Combine these in a bowl, mixing until you’ve achieved a thick consistency. It should feel solid when you tap it quickly and liquid when you move your fingers through it slowly.

Walking on Oobleck : For a true test of viscosity , make a large batch of Oobleck in a paddling pool and attempt to walk across it. The key is in your speed; run fast enough, and you won’t sink.

Educational Aspects of Oobleck Play

Michelle Connolly, founder of LearningMole, highlights the value of such experiments: “Oobleck is not only engaging but teaches kids about non-Newtonian fluids in a way that’s easy to grasp and remember.” Oobleck play introduces scientific concepts like states of matter in an enjoyable format. Science experiments like these can change the learning experience for kids, making abstract concepts tangible.

Oobleck and Vibrations

Discovering the impact of sound : Place Oobleck over a speaker and watch how it responds to different music and vibrations . You can conduct an experiment to see how Oobleck reacts to various frequencies and volumes, turning a science experiment into an unexpected dance party.

Oobleck Properties and Phenomena

Oobleck, a quirky mixture you can easily create, transforms from liquid to solid under pressure. Uncover the secret behind its bizarre behaviour and why it’s more than just a party trick.

Viscosity and Temperature Effects

Viscosity, the measure of a fluid’s resistance to flow, is at the heart of oobleck’s unique characteristics. Typically, viscosity changes with temperature ; most liquids flow more freely as they warm. Oobleck, however, doesn’t follow this rule. Its viscosity isn’t dictated by temperature but rather by the force applied to it, making it an anomaly in the world of fluids.

Non-Newtonian Fluid under Stress

Unlike water or oil, which have a consistent flow regardless of force, oobleck is a non-Newtonian fluid . This means it behaves as a liquid when left undisturbed but acts like a solid under sudden stress or impact. The phenomenon allows for activities like the Oobleck Walk, where the fluid solidifies under the pressure of your footsteps, enabling you to literally stand on it.

Quicksand and Oobleck Comparison

Quicksand , like oobleck, is often misunderstood. Both can trap objects, but their mechanics differ. Quicksand, a mixture of sand and water, becomes more fluid under stress, which can cause sinking. Oobleck’s ability to harden when pressure is applied actually makes it the opposite of quicksand in behaviour. This contrast sheds light on the diverse ways different mixtures can respond to stress.

Literary References

When you explore the origins of oobleck, you’re immediately taken to the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss. His book introduces the gooey substance and provides a delightful touchstone for the science behind non-Newtonian fluids.

Dr. Seuss’s ‘Bartholomew and the Oobleck’

The classic tale of Bartholomew and the Oobleck by Dr. Seuss stands at the heart of any discussion on oobleck. This children’s book, penned by the acclaimed author, sketches the story of a young boy, Bartholomew Cubbins, and his encounter with a peculiar substance named ‘oobleck.’ The story unfolds in the Kingdom of Didd, where King Derwin grows tired of the same old rain, snow, fog, and sunshine. Yearning for something novel, he consults his royal magicians, who concoct a sticky, green glop that descends from the sky—oobleck. The chaos that ensues provides not just amusement but a subtle caution against tampering with nature.

Dr. Seuss’s literature is not just for entertainment. Michelle Connolly , founder of LearningMole and an educational consultant, points out, “Dr. Seuss’s storytelling has layers of educational value. ‘Bartholomew and the Oobleck’ encourages children to engage with science in a playful yet meaningful way.” Indeed, the book subtly encourages young readers to think about the consequences of actions and the importance of being open to learning from unexpected outcomes.

Safety and Precautions

When engaging with Oobleck, it’s crucial to consider safety and cleanliness. Take care to manage potential allergies and ensure a smooth clean-up process to maintain a safe and enjoyable experience.

Oobleck and Allergies

Oobleck, typically made from cornstarch and water, is generally safe for most individuals. However, if you have a corn allergy , it’s essential to avoid contact with Oobleck. As an alternative, flour can sometimes be used, but this too can be allergenic. Always check for allergies before starting and have a suitable substitute if needed.

Managing Mess and Clean Up

Playing with Oobleck can get messy. To avoid stubborn clean-up, lay down plastic sheets or newspapers where the activity will take place. After the fun is over, let the Oobleck dry and then sweep or vacuum the residue. If Oobleck gets wet, it can clog drains, so avoid washing it down the sink. Instead, scoop it into the bin , or dispose of it in a plastic bag.

Michelle Connolly, a founder with abundant experience, shares her insight: “Having quick clean-up strategies in place makes science explorations with children more about learning and less about worrying over the mess.” Keep her advice in mind, embrace the chaos, but stay prepared for an efficient tidy-up.

Advanced Oobleck Activities

Engage with Oobleck in more sophisticated ways, turning simple play with consistency into a deeper exploration of science. These advanced activities are perfect for those who’ve mastered the basic Oobleck recipe and are ready for more complex fun.

Playing with Oobleck’s Texture

Experimenting with the texture of Oobleck can transform this simple mixture into a versatile science project that you can tweak and test. By adjusting the ratio of water to cornstarch, you can observe how the consistency of Oobleck changes. For a firmer Oobleck that acts more like a solid under pressure, increase the amount of cornstarch. Conversely, add more water for an Oobleck that stays in its liquid state longer. Documenting your findings in a table can help track the changes:

Oobleck Dance Party

Turn on the music and watch your Oobleck dance! Place a tray of Oobleck over a speaker and play some tunes with a strong bass. The vibrations from the music will cause the Oobleck to jump and move in fascinating ways because of its non-Newtonian nature. It’s a playful introduction to the science of sound waves and a practical demonstration of how vibrations affect different materials.

Michelle Connolly, founder of LearningMole, who brings 16 years of in-class experience to the table, advises, “Always keep safety in mind with these experiments – loud music can damage hearing, so ensure the volume is at a safe level and consider using ear protection.”

Oobleck in Education

Experimenting with Oobleck is a compelling way to bring to life the principles that Sir Isaac Newton introduced to the world. By incorporating this non-Newtonian fluid into educational settings, both kids and adults can turn the abstract into the tangible, experiencing firsthand the principles that govern the behaviour of matter.

Teaching Newtonian Principles

Oobleck offers a unique opportunity to demonstrate Newtonian physics in a way that is both enjoyable and educational. Children find Oobleck particularly fascinating because it behaves differently under various conditions – it flows like a liquid when left undisturbed but becomes solid under pressure. This peculiar behaviour piques their curiosity and provides a perfect example of a non-Newtonian fluid, different from typical solids, liquids, and gases that they learn about.

Engaging with Oobleck allows students to question and hypothesise about the nature of materials, which is a key scientific skill. It also connects directly to Isaac Newton’s three laws of motion, giving children a tactile way to explore inertia, acceleration, and the idea that every action has an equal and opposite reaction.

“Playing with Oobleck is not just fun; it’s a doorway to understanding complex physical laws in an intuitive way. Our hands-on experiments encourage children to visualize and remember the concepts more effectively,” says Michelle Connolly, a founder and educational consultant with over 16 years of classroom experience.

Whether in a school lab or at home, creating and experimenting with Oobleck can be a simple and powerful science experiment. This substance is an excellent medium for educators and parents to facilitate a deeper understanding of the foundational principles of physics and encourage a lifelong love of science.

Remember, while Oobleck is fun and educational, it’s essential you supervise young scientists during experiments to ensure safety and maximise learning.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When experimenting with Oobleck on your surfaces, there are a couple of typical problems you might run into. Let’s address these one by one to ensure your Oobleck fun isn’t cut short by any mishaps.

Oobleck Consistency Problems

If your Oobleck mixture isn’t behaving as expected, first consider its consistency . The ideal Oobleck should be hard when you apply pressure and liquid when you let it rest. If it’s too runny, gradually add more cornstarch. Conversely, if it’s too thick, slowly mix in small amounts of water until the desired consistency is achieved.

Michelle Connolly, with her extensive classroom experience, reminds us, “It’s all about finding the perfect balance; a little change can make a big difference in getting the consistency just right for your experiment.”

Oobleck Removal from Surfaces

In the event of an Oobleck spill, don’t reach for the drain . Oobleck can clog your pipes. Instead, scrape off as much as you can with a paper towel or a spatula. For any residue, use a hose or a bucket of hot water to rinse the surface, followed by a thorough wipe-down. As for clean up , do ensure to let the Oobleck dry out before you dispose of it in the bin to prevent any plumbing issues.

Oobleck Beyond Play

While many know oobleck as a fascinating science experiment, it has real-world applications that extend beyond mere play. Discover how this non-Newtonian fluid makes waves beyond the confines of playtime and dazzles in popular media.

Practical Uses of Non-Newtonian Fluids

Non-Newtonian fluids like oobleck demonstrate unique properties that make them useful in a variety of settings. For instance, they’re valuable in improving safety gear , such as body armour or helmets. The shear-thickening quality of these fluids, which harden upon impact, translates to enhanced protection against sudden forces. Vehicle safety also benefits; for example, car dashboards might integrate non-Newtonian materials to mitigate injuries during collisions.

In the construction realm, non-Newtonian fluids are explored for vibration dampening —in structures or machinery where fluctuating stresses can cause damage, embedding these fluids within materials helps absorb and dissipate energy.

Oobleck in Popular Media

The allure of oobleck transcends science labs—it’s made cameos in various forms of media. Described in a children’s book by Dr. Seuss , it brings a tangible connection for young readers to grasp complex scientific concepts. In turn, educators and parents can leverage this element of pop culture to spark children’s interest in science.

Videos of oobleck in action—whether it’s walking on a pool of it or watching it dance on a speaker—spread the excitement of science experiments to a broader online audience. “Oobleck presents a fascinating avenue to connect with your kids over something that’s both educational and enormously fun ,” says Michelle Connolly, founder of LearningMole and educational consultant with extensive experience. “Incorporating elements like non-Newtonian fluids in play can leave a lasting impression and foster a love for science.”

Oobleck further dabbles in the arts— performers and artists use it to add a dynamic element to their work , whether it’s part of an interactive installation or in dynamic performance art, where the viscosity of non-Newtonian fluids like oobleck allows for an exploration of movement and texture that traditional paint just cannot provide.

Oobleck Recipes

Creating Oobleck is a fascinating way to engage with science, and it’s simple enough that you can make it at home with common kitchen ingredients. Follow these recipes to create your own non-Newtonian fluid for a hands-on scientific experiment.

Alternative Ingredients

• Cornstarch or Cornflour : The base ingredient for Oobleck is cornstarch (UK: cornflour ), a fine powder derived from the endosperm of corn. For every cup of cornflour, you will need approximately 1/2 cup of water to start. Gradually add more water until you achieve the desired consistency.
• Flour and Baking Soda : If you don’t have cornflour, a combination of plain flour and baking soda can work as a substitute. Mix 1 cup of flour with 2 tablespoons of baking soda, then slowly add water and mix until the mixture acts like Oobleck.
• Tea : For a fragrant twist, you can brew a strong cup of tea and use it in place of water. This will add a pleasant aroma to your Oobleck and natural colouring.

Package and Storage

• Storing : After making your Oobleck, if you want to store it, place it in an airtight container. It can last for a couple of days. However, over time, the mixture may separate, and you’ll need to stir it again.
• Packaging : For transport or as a gift, package your Oobleck in ziplock bags or sealed jars . Make sure they are sealed tightly to prevent leakage.

Remember, making Oobleck is an easy and fun way to introduce yourself to the world of non-Newtonian fluids. Have your measuring cups ready, and enjoy the process of mixing and experimentation! Michelle Connolly, the founder of LearningMole, attests that “Engaging children with hands-on experiments like Oobleck can spark a lifelong interest in science.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Exploring the whimsical world of non-Newtonian fluids like Oobleck can be both educational and entertaining. Here’s what you need to know about creating and experimenting with this curious substance.

How do you make Oobleck for a large-scale experiment?

For a large-scale Oobleck experiment, you’ll need to scale up your ingredients. Mix approximately 2 parts cornflour to 1 part water. If you’re covering a large area, such as a paddling pool, start with 10 kilograms of cornflour and adjust with water as necessary.

What happens if you attempt to run across a pool filled with Oobleck?

If you attempt to run across a pool of Oobleck, its shear thickening properties come into play. The force you exert by running causes the mixture to behave more like a solid, allowing you to briefly run on the surface before sinking if you stop moving.

Is it safe to handle Oobleck with bare hands, and are there any precautions one should take?

Handling Oobleck with bare hands is generally safe as it’s typically made from cornflour and water. Michelle Connolly notes, “Always ensure there are no allergies to the components, and avoid ingestion. It’s messy fun but totally safe for most hands-on experiments.”

Can you demonstrate the properties of non-Newtonian fluids using Oobleck?

Yes, you can demonstrate non-Newtonian fluid properties using Oobleck. Apply pressure, and it behaves like a solid; release it, and it flows like a liquid. This makes Oobleck a fantastic tool for practical science learning.

What did the MythBusters show about the possibilities of walking on Oobleck?

The MythBusters demonstrated that it is possible to walk on a large pool of Oobleck, although movement must be rapid and continuous. The episode highlighted the fluid’s ability to transition from liquid to solid under stress.

What’s the science behind standing still on Oobleck without sinking?

Standing still on Oobleck can be tricky because without movement, the mixture acts like a liquid due to its weight-dependent viscosity, causing you to sink. Michelle Connolly explains, “It’s all about pressure. Without continuous movement, Oobleck won’t provide the necessary resistance to stay afloat.”

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Oobleck is a suspension of cornstarch and water that can behave like a solid or a liquid depending on how much pressure you apply. Try to grab some in your hand, and it will form a solid ball in your palm until you release the pressure. Then, it will flow out between your fingers. Materials that behave this way are classified as non-Newtonian fluid because their flow properties are not described by a constant viscosity. The name Oobleck comes from the 1949 children’s book,  Bartholomew and the Oobleck , by Dr. Seuss. In the story, a sticky liquid falls from the sky as a result of the king becoming bored with normal weather.

Here’s what you need

Let’s get to the fun stuff. In order to make a Oobleck you will need the following items:

Pitcher of Water

Aluminum pie pans

Measuring cups

Mixing spoon

Newspaper for covering tables

Food coloring or tempera paint (for fun)

Place one and a half cups of cornstarch in a pie pan

Add one cup of water, and stir well.

Add more water or cornstarch until you get a mixture that ‘tears’ when you quickly scrape your finger through it and then ‘melts’ back together again.

Squeeze it…Squish it…Scoop it…Pinch it…What happens?

If you want to color your Oobleck, add some tempera paint. You can use food coloring if that’s all you have on hand. Food coloring tends to stain more than the paint, especially if you have a spill while preparing your Oobleck. One thing to keep in mind is that Oobleck is a suspension, not a solution. The cornstarch does not dissolve in the water like salt or sugar would. Instead, the tiny starch particles are suspended in the liquid. If you let it sit long enough in a glass, the cornstarch will settle to the bottom leaving a layer of clear water on the top. This is why it is very important not to pour Oobleck down the drain. Should the suspension separate in your drain pipes, you will be left with a hard clump of cornstarch that will block the drain. The best way to get rid of your Oobleck is to simply put it in your trash can.

What does non-Newtonian mean?

All fluids have a property known as viscosity that describes how the fluid flows – commonly thought of as how thick or thin a fluid is. For instance, honey is much more viscous than water. When a fluid’s viscosity is constant, it is referred to as a Newtonian fluid. Oobleck is an example of a fluid whose viscosity is not constant; it’s viscosity changes depending on the stress or forces applied to it. If you poke it with your finger and apply a large force, it becomes very viscous and stays in place. If you gently pour it, applying little force, it will flow like water. This kind of fluid is called a dilatant material or a shear thickening fluid. It becomes more viscous when agitated or compressed.

Another non-Newtonian liquid is ketchup. Ketchup behaves in the opposite way from Oobleck. You could even call it the “anti-Oobleck.” It becomes less viscous when agitated. Liquids like this are called shear thinning liquids. If you leave a bottle of Ketchup on a shelf, it becomes thicker or more viscous. Nearly everyone has experienced this while trying to pour the liquid from a new bottle – it refuses to move. If you shake the bottle or stir it up, it becomes less viscous and pours easily.

Why does Oobleck behave the way it does?

The most generally accepted explanation for the behavior of Oobleck is offered by Cary Sneider in “Oobleck: What do Scientists Say?”. When sitting still, the granules of starch are surrounded by water. The surface tension of the water keeps it from completely flowing out of the spaces between the granules. The cushion of water provides quite a bit of lubrication and allows the granules to move freely. But, if the movement is abrupt, the water is squeezed out from between the granules and the friction between them increases rather dramatically.

Experiments to try

The first thing you have to do is simply place your hands into the Oobleck and start squeezing it. Have some fun! Try to make a ball by moving it around quickly in your palms. Once you stop applying pressure to the mixture, it will flow out of your hands like a liquid. Try filling a pie plate with a think layer of Oobleck and then slapping the surface with your open hand. Because of the dilatant properties, becoming more viscous when a force is applied, the liquid will all stay in the plate. Try the same experiment with water and compare the results! If you have a lot of cornstarch and a small pool (or a large one like in the video), you can supersize this experiment. Since the liquid becomes more viscous when pressure is applied, you can actually walk or run on the surface without sinking. Of course, once you stop moving, you will begin slowly sinking into the liquid.

Science Fun

Easy Oobleck Excavation

• Corn Starch
• Container or tray
• Small dinosaurs or other items to be excavated
• Blunt instrument or tool to use to dig in the Easy Oobleck Excavation
• Optional – Bath coloring tablets

Instructions:

• Optional – Put a bath coloring tablet in the water. Avoid food coloring as it stains hands and is hard to remove. 
• Use your hands to mix about two cups of cornstarch with one cup of water in the tray.
• Push several dinosaurs or your preferred items to be excavated into the oobleck. Plastic items tend to float a little so be sure to check back a time or two and push them down into the oobleck. 
• Place the container of oobleck in front of a fan to dry overnight. 
• Make sure the Easy Oobleck Excavation has dried.
• Use the tool to scrape away and excavate the dried oobleck and uncover the treasures inside. 
• Once all the items have been discovered, the Easy Oobleck Excavation can be reconstituted with water and the oobleck can be enjoyed. 

WATCH THE QUICK AND EASY VIDEO TUTORIAL

How it Works:

The corn starch and water mixture we call Outrageous Oobleck is a non-Newtonian as it can act as a liquid or solid. Allowing Outrageous Oobleck to flow through your fingers will act as a liquid but a quick force on oobleck will cause it to behave as a solid. Once the moisture evaporates, the cornstarch binds together forming the excavation material and trapping the items inside. 

Make This A Science Project:

What happen when you increase the water to corn starch ratio? What happens if you use a different liquid than water? What happens if you introduce another ingredient such as dish soap or baking soda? 

EXPLORE TONS OF FUN AND EASY SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS!

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How to Make Oobleck

Do you know how to make oobleck or even what, exactly, it is? Oobleck is the name of a non-Newtonian fluid made by mixing corn starch and water. It has the name “oobleck” because it resembles the green stuff called oobleck in the Dr. Seuss book, “Bartholomew and the Oobleck.”

In the story, the King wants a replacement for rain and snow. The Royal Magicians produce oobleck, a green gelatinous substance that entraps objects and people. Bartholomew saves the day by getting the King to take back his wish, returning the weather to normal.

The oobleck you make is not exactly magical, but it does display interesting properties. Here is how to make it and a look at how it works.

Non-Newtonian Fluids

A non-Newtonian fluid is one that experiences viscosity changes, depending on mechanical conditions. In other words, sometimes it flows like a liquid and other times it does not flow, like a solid . In contrast, a Newtonian fluid maintains pretty much the same viscosity, no matter what you do to it.

There are different types of non-Newtonian fluids. For example, slime is a non-Newtonian fluid that flows under low stress, but breaks under pressure. Ketchup is a non-Newtonian fluid that is a shear-thinning fluid. It does not easily flow, but if you tap or shake a ketchup bottle, its contents suddenly change to a lower viscosity and pour out.

Oobleck is a type of non-Newtonian fluid called a dilatant. A dilatant is a shear-thickening fluid (the opposite of ketchup). Applying shear stress by punching or squeezing instantly thickens oobleck, so it acts like a solid. Releasing stress lets oobleck flow, like a liquid. For example, oobleck supports your weight if you run across a layer of it. But, you sink into it if you walk slowly.

Oobleck is simple to make, inexpensive, non-toxic, and uses familiar ingredients:

• 1 ½ -2 cups corn starch
• 1 cup water
• food coloring (optional)
• Make any amount of oobleck using 1.5 to 2 parts corn starch to 1 part water. For example, mix together 2 cups of corn starch and 1 cup of water.
• Add food coloring, if desired. The color of oobleck in the Dr. Seuss story is green.

Unlike slime, oobleck is not sticky. All you need for clean-up is water, unless you use food coloring. Re-use the oobleck as much as you like. When it dries out, just add a bit more water. If it’s too wet, add more corn starch.

Fun Oobleck Activities

Explore the interesting properties of oobleck:

• Play with a bowl of oobleck. Watch it ooze through your fingers. Squeeze it and feel how it changes consistency.
• Draw shapes in the oobleck. How long do they last? Does it matter how quickly you draw?
• Pour a large batch in a metal or plastic bin. Walk through it. See how long it holds you up if you stomp on it.
• Seal oobleck in a zip-top plastic bag. Compare what happens when you slowly squeeze it to its behavior when you shake it or drop it.
• Place a dish of oobleck on top of a subwoofer. Play low frequency sounds at high volume and see the forms the oobleck takes.

How Oobleck Works

Oobleck acts the way it does because of the way corn starch and water mix together. They form a colloidal mixture , with large starch grains surrounded by water. At rest, the high surface tension of water forms lubricating droplets around the granules of corn starch. The cushion of water permits flow. Compressing the mixture forces the starch together and locks them in position. So, under shear stress, oobleck behaves more like a crystal.

• Chhabra, R.P. (2006). Bubbles, Drops, and Particles in Non-Newtonian Fluids (2nd ed.). Hoboken: Taylor & Francis Ltd. ISBN 978-1420015386.
• Dr. Seuss (1949). Bartholomew and the Oobleck . Random House Books for Young Readers. ISBN: 978-0394900759.
• Rupp, Rebecca (1998). “Magic Mud and Other Great Experiments”. The Complete Home Learning Source Book . ISBN 9780609801093.
• Tropea, Cameron; Yarin, Alexander L.; Foss, John F. (2007). Springer Handbook of Experimental Fluid Mechanics . Springer. ISBN 978-3-540-25141-5.

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How to make oobleck

May 4, 2018 By Emma Vanstone 18 Comments

Making oobleck , also known as cornflour gloop or slime, was one of the first science activities I wrote about on Science Sparks. It’s a brilliant indoor or outdoor science activity that only needs two ingredients, so it is super easy as well! I’ve given this very old post about how to make oobleck a bit of an update and refresh, so I hope you like it!

What is oobleck?

Gloop or oobleck is just cornflour and water. It’s very easy to make and creates a lovely gooey slime that feels solid when you scrunch it up and liquid if you let it flow through your fingers.

Oobleck Recipe

• Food colouring – optional
• Ice cube trays – optional
• Mixing bowl
• Colander, funnel and beakers – optional, but great for messy fun!

Instructions for making cornflour gloop

• Fill a cup with cornflour and pour it into a bowl
• Add water slowly, mixing with your hands, until you get a sticky, slimy gloop.
• If you want to make it coloured, add some food colouring ( be careful this can stain skin and clothes).
• Play with the slime and see how it behaves. Can you make it into a ball? What happens if you throw it onto the floor?

The Science of Oobleck

Did you notice that if you make a ball with oobleck or gloop, it feels solid, but if you drop the oobleck on the floor, it turns liquid again? The cornflour and water mixture is a Non-Newtonian fluid as it doesn’t flow like liquids normally do.

Cornflour gloop ( oobleck )  is made up of molecules arranged in long chains. When the chains are stretched, the liquid will flow, but when you force them together, they stick together to form a solid.

Cornflour Slime Play Ideas

Try squeezing the cornflour gloop into a ball. It should feel solid. Open your hand and watch as the cornflour slime runs through your fingers.

Can you freeze the gloop? Our  frozen Kool Aid oobleck  smelled wonderful.

Try pouring the slime through a colander. What happens? Can you use the slime to trap a small figure or pretend spider?

The always amazing Babble Dabble Do has even more fun activity ideas for you, so don’t forget to check out her blog.

Housing a Forest makes  oobleck dance !

Try adding more and less water to find out if it changes how the oobleck flows.

Oobleck Challenge

Fill a tray of oobleck and try to walk on it!

I also have a printable instruction sheet available for this. Go to the experiment instructions page to find it.

If you liked this activity, you might like our other messy play ideas , too!

Once you’re finished with the oobleck, leave it somewhere warm to dry out. Then, you can either save it to use again or throw it away.

This activity is also part of my playful science series , which is full of play-based science activities for kids.

Last Updated on May 13, 2024 by Emma Vanstone

Safety Notice

Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

Reader Interactions

August 15, 2011 at 7:15 am

I always loved this activity. A favourite was rolling a ball in the hands then handing it to a child and watching it collapse. I would then ask what they thought had happened. Their responses could be very creative.

August 15, 2011 at 9:11 am

Ooo, going to have a go at this one !

August 21, 2011 at 4:31 pm

Yup I think it is The Sunday Showcase you are looking for! http://www.classifiedmom.com/2011/08/link-up-you-child-centered-activities.html Link up 😉

August 21, 2011 at 8:50 pm

you learn something every day – something to pay around with when mu daughter is older. Please keep your blog going so I can refer back to it.

August 21, 2011 at 8:51 pm

you learn something every day – something to pay around with when my daughter is older. Please keep your blog going so I can refer back to it.

August 22, 2011 at 12:00 am

great for a homeschool science activity – please follow back at http://biguniversesmallworld.blogspot.com

August 25, 2011 at 7:24 pm

This is a big hit with my two girls (Emily 4 & Phoebe 2) and features in our Little Explorer classes for toddlers/preschoolers too and it is an activity that is always approached with curiosity, awe and amazement! Loving the picture too, this is a good activity around Halloween time especially if using green colouring. To avoid staining, particularly for younger children, we use waterbased paint to colour the ‘goo’. Thanks Lisa

August 25, 2011 at 8:50 pm

Water based paints are a brilliant idea. Thank you so much for reading and commenting. x

August 26, 2011 at 4:28 am

My kids love to make this stuff! Great post- Thank you for linking up to The Sunday Showcase. Glad you could make it.

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A Year Of Oobleck Recipes, Science Experiments and Activities

We love Oobleck around here. It is non-toxic, super easy to make with items in your pantry, fantastic for all ages, and teaches some fascinating scientific principles. In fact we have created so many Oobleck projects we had people asking for me to put them all together into one big, year long, classroom resource. I’m excited to say it is finally here!

12 Months of Oobleck Projects

What you will discover in this article!

Disclaimer: This article may contain commission or affiliate links. As an Amazon Influencer I earn from qualifying purchases. Not seeing our videos? Turn off any adblockers to ensure our video feed can be seen. Or visit our YouTube channel to see if the video has been uploaded there. We are slowly uploading our archives. Thanks!

What is Oobleck?

Oobleck, is also known as magic mud, goop, goo, oobleck slime, slime and, of course, for our science minded folks, a non-Newtonian Fluid. It is non-toxic, crazy fun, easy to make, messy and a fantastic sensory experience for kids of all ages.

So what makes it so fascinating? It’s the way it moves! Yes I said moves!

Think for a moment about how water or syrup flow, whether you pour them out of a cup or squish them in your hands, they have a predictable, consistent pattern of movement.

Oobleck is completely baffling and doesn’t behave like a proper liquid at all. Instead of flowing predictably, It becomes solid under pressure. Punch it and it becomes solid, you can even walk on it! Move it around in your hands and it takes on play dough like consistency. Some of our recipes get so hard under pressure I have broken finger nails playing with them!

But here is the extra crazy fun part, open your hands and release that pressure or stop squishing the Oobleck, and it flows like regular liquid between your fingers. Or stop walking/running across it and you will sink.

Are you seeing all the amazing sensory science opportunities here? It is no wonder kids love playing with Oobleck so much! And since it is non-toxic and taste safe (using items in your kitchen right now), you can use it for your preschoolers to teenagers for some messy, fun sensory science.

How Does Oobleck Work?

So how exactly does this crazy substance work? Let’s dig into a little science!

Sir Isaac Newton had a number of theories around fluid dynamics. These laws and rules explained how we could readily predict how liquids behave and their properties. Then we have our rule breaker! With Oobleck we have a non-Newtonian Fluid because it doesn’t follow Newton’s Law of Viscosity. Fluid should not become solid under pressure!

BREAKING NEWS! Learn more about some of the latest scientific studies, investigations and models of Oobleck non-Newtonian Fluids here.

IS Oobleck a Solid or a liquid?

If you have ever played with Oobleck you know it doesn’t behave the way you would expect at all. When you apply force it becomes a solid. You can actually walk on it, or mold it like play dough, as long as you keep the force up.

Remove that pressure and force though, and it will flow through your fingers.

This phenomenon is called “shear thickening” and it occurs in materials made up of microscopic solid particles suspended in a fluid. Oobleck therefore is a suspension. The solid molecules are not dissolving in the liquid, they are simply suspended. When you make Oobleck you will see it quickly separates. The suspended molecules settle to the bottom and the liquid rises to the top of the container.

Also as the name, non-Newtonian Fluid, implies, Oobleck is a fluid. Just a very strangely behaving one!

Want to know more about the science behind Oobleck? We dig into the science in our new printable resource!

How Did Oobleck Get It’s Name?

Although this non-Newtonian Fluid goes by many names, including magic mud, goo, goop, or the most common name is Oobleck. But where did the term “Oobleck” come from? In fact it was created by none other than Dr. Seuss.

Back in 1949 Dr. Seuss wrote a book called Bartholomew and the Oobleck . It is a story about a king who was bored with the weather and asked his team of magicians to create something new to entertain him. The result was this gloopy, sloppy, sticky substance that rained down from the sky on the unsuspecting villagers. A substance that had a lot of properties in common with our beloved non-Newtonian Fluid. It may not have been intentional, but it is a fantastic story of how this magical substance got its name.

How to Make Oobleck

There are many different ways to make Oobleck, the most common uses Corn Starch, but there are many other recipes which makes Oobleck the perfect project for a year long study!

That’s where our new printable resource comes in.

Oobleck Sensory Science provides a detailed background on Oobleck and how it works. Including lots of extra science for your curious scientists!

In addition, we have included a full year of recipes, science experiments, and activities for your home or classroom. Every month you can explore something new about Oobleck.

Here is just a sample of what’s included: 5 Proven Recipes Science Fair Project Oobleck Recipes and Projects to Celebrate Holidays & Seasons Science Experiments using Oobleck Fun Sensory Games and More!

Interested in learning more and incorporating Oobleck into your lessons this year? Check out our Oobleck Sensory Science book now! It is available on Teachers Paying Teachers or in our Store as a immediate delivery, printable PDF.

MORE FUN FOR THE CLASSROOM

5 Days of Smart STEM Ideas for Kids

Get started in STEM with easy, engaging activities.

Oozing oobleck

Most substances behave in unsurprising ways that depend on whether they are solids, liquids or gases. This activity shows how to create a substance called oobleck, which can behave like both a solid and a liquid, depending on how hard you hit it.

Printable downloads

 follow these steps….

Oobleck can make a great deal of mess, although once it has dried it can easily be swept or vacuumed up. You may want to wear an apron. If cornflour does get onto your clothes, it will wash out with no problems.

Think and talk about…

• What do you think is happening?
• Does oobleck behave like a solid, liquid or both?
• Why do you think oobleck acts like this?
• Can you think of anything else that behaves like oobleck?
• If you had a pool full of oobleck, do you think you could run across it?

Investigate…

• What happens if you let your fingers gently run through the oobleck?
• Apply a force to the oobleck, such as tapping or slapping it. What effect does it have?
• If you let your hand sink into the oobleck, can you pull it out quickly?
• How hard is it to remove objects from the bottom of the bowl?

Did you know?

The name ‘oobleck’ comes from a Dr Seuss book called Bartholomew and the Oobleck .

What’s the science?

Cornflour consists of billions of tiny irregularly shaped particles of starch. When water is added, the liquid flows around each starch grain and acts like a lubricant, making the mixture runny as the particles slip over each other. When a sudden large force is applied, the starch particles tangle, and the mixture hardens. However, these effects are only temporary. As soon as the force is removed, the water surrounds each of the particles again and the mixture becomes runny once more.

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How to Make Oobleck

Want to have fun with physics and even "walk on water"? Try making a mixture of cornstarch and water called oobleck. It makes a great science project or is just fun to play with.

Oobleck is a non-Newtonian fluid; it has properties of both liquids and solids. You can slowly dip your hand into it like a liquid, but if you squeeze the oobleck or punch it, it will feel solid. The name oobleck comes from the Dr. Seuss book, “Bartholomew and the Oobleck.” In the story, oobleck, a gooey green substance, fell from the sky and wreaked havoc in the kingdom.

Making oobleck is easy. Here's a recipe:

Oobleck ingredients

• 1 part water
• 1.5 to 2 parts cornstarch
• Small amount of food coloring (optional)

Mix ingredients

• Start with the water in a bowl (or wading pool!) and add the cornstarch a bit at a time.
• Keep stirring until it has a gooey consistency. You may want to use your hands.
• When the oobleck is just right, slowly add food coloring, if you want. This can be a challenge to get it mixed properly.
• Play with it.

Things to do with oobleck

• Grab a handful and squeeze it. Let it ooze through your fingers.
• Make a puddle and quickly drag your fingers through it.
• Put it into a plastic container and shake it or quickly bump it against a table.
• Jab at the oobleck and then slowly let your finger sink in.
• Roll some oobleck into a ball. It becomes solid, but when you stop moving it, it will melt back into your hand.

Some science projects use oobleck. Experiments you can try include:

Put some oobleck on an old speaker and watch it dance:

Or, put it in a cookie sheet on top of a speaker:

Put a lot of it in a kiddie pool and walk across it:

• Store in an air-tight container. Mix occasionally.
• If you put in food coloring, you may notice a little bit of color left on your hands after washing. Don't worry. It should go away in a day or two.
• Anything put into the slime can be washed with soap and water.
• To dispose of the oobleck, mix it with a lot of hot water to make a very loose slurry. Pour a small amount into the drain while the hot water is running.
• Oobleck when dried can be easily vacuumed.
• Don't drop oobleck on a couch, deck, or sidewalk. It's hard to get off.
• Oobleck isn't poisonous, but it tastes awful. Wash your hands after playing. Make sure children are supervised.
• 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.
• Oobleck may solidify if it's not kept wet. If it hardens, just throw it away.
• If oobleck is left out too long, it will dry out and turn back to cornstarch.

Related: Oobleck's Weird Properties Demystified

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How to Make Oobleck: Cornstarch and Water Science Experiment

Making oobleck is a fun sensory activity and science project for kids. With only cornstarch and water, you can make this non-Newtonian fluid that acts like a solid and a liquid at the same time.

If your kids like slime , they will love oobleck (or as some likes to call it, homemade goop). As a parent, you will love oobleck too because it’s fun to play with like slime, but so much easier to clean up. Plus, you only need 2 ingredients! Sounds awesome? Read on to learn how to make oobleck .

One of the best things about this oobleck recipe is that unlike other science experiments, you can’t mess up. If your oobleck is too watery, just add more cornstarch. On the other hand, if your oobleck is too hard, simply add more water. 

The oobleck is edible, though I wouldn’t recommend trying to taste it. But that’s why oobleck is a great sensory activity for babies and toddlers because you don’t have to worry if some got into their little mouths by accident. 

That said, even preschoolers, kindergarteners, and elementary school kids will love touching and playing with oobleck! I will admit, even I think it’s a bunch of fun. If you want, you can add some food coloring to it and make it colorful. We left ours without color because my kids couldn’t wait to get their hands in it!

How to Make Oobleck

Ingredients:.

• 2 cups cornstarch
• 1 cup water
• (Optional) food coloring

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Oobleck:

1. Add 2 cups cornstarch and 1 cup water to a mixing bowl or container. If you want to make more goop for multiple kids, you can simply increase the amount of the two ingredients. However, make sure that you always maintain the same cornstarch to water ratio.

2. Mix thoroughly until the cornstarch and water until your oobleck is formed.

3. (Optional) For a colorful oobleck, add a few drops of food coloring to the water, then mix with the cornstarch.

How do you know when you have successfully made the oobleck? You should be able to pick up the oobleck with your hand and squeeze it into a ball. When you let go, the oobleck ball should turn back into a liquid and drip off your palm.

Tips for Making the Oobleck:

• If your oobleck is too watery, add a little bit of cornstarch and mix. Repeat until you get the desired consistency.
• If your oobleck is too solid, add a little bit of water and mix. Continue until you reach the desired consistency.
• As your kid plays with the oobleck, it will start to dry out. Simply add a little bit of water and mix and continue playing!
• If you want to make several colors of oobleck, divide your oobleck batch into a few smaller bowls and add the desired food coloring. You can then put the different colors of oobleck next to each other and see how they interact!

How to Play with Oobleck

There are so many possibilities when it comes to playing with oobleck. Here are some activity suggestions:

• Just use your hands! Try and pick up as much oobleck as possible and make it into a ball by putting pressure on it with your fingers and palms. Then just relax your hands and watch it “melt”!
• Take a measuring spoon or cup and scoop up the oobleck. Is it easy to scoop? Try hitting the oobleck with the back of the spoon. Does the spoon cause it to spread and ripple like water (liquid), or does the spoon bounce off like it just hit the floor (solid)?
• Add small objects to the oobleck. Do the objects stay on top of the oobleck or do they sink like they are in quicksand? My kids had a lot of fun with this one in the dinosaur dig activity where they tried to rescue the little dinosaur figurines from the “mud” oobleck.

The Science Behind the DIY Goop: What is Oobleck?

Oobleck is a special kind of fluid. A fluid is something that can move around easily and change shapes (like water). What makes oobleck special? It acts like a liquid AND a solid. 

Everything is made of particles. The way the particles behave decides if something is a solid or a liquid. Most things do not get to be both. But oobleck does!

Water, milk, and soda are liquids. They move around and take the shape of whatever container they are in. Oobleck acts like a liquid when it is handled gently or in a container. You see this when you dip your fingers slowly into the oobleck. The fluid is relaxed and acts like water. 

Think about how you cannot pick up your bathwater. It is hard to pick up the oobleck too! The particles that make up the oobleck move apart easily. This allows it to act as a liquid.

A solid is something that is hard, like a wall or your chair. You can’t push your hand in a solid wall. Oobleck acts like a solid when it is hit or pushed hard. When you thump or slap the oobleck, it feels like you have hit a soft wall. Your hand does not go through it as it did before! 

Think about how your muscles feel when you are scared. When you jump, your muscles get tight and hard. You can think about oobleck kind of like that. The particles squish together tightly. This allows it to act like a solid.

Ever imagined (or feared) being stuck in quicksand? Quicksand is another example of this special kind of fluid! Using what you know now, do you know how you would escape? If you want to know more about this fun fluid, check out this article on non-Newtonian fluid.

How to Clean Up and Dispose of Oobleck

Since oobleck is just water and cornstarch, cleaning it up is easy! There are a couple of options:

• Rinse or wipe your hands, the bowl, clothes, or the table with warm water. Just make sure that you don’t pour too much of it down your drain because the cornstarch will clog the pipes. 
• Leave the oobleck to dry. Once it’s completely dry, it will turn into a powder (cornstarch) and you can easily vacuum it up or toss it in the garbage.

How to Store Oobleck

Oobleck spoils easily. Even refrigerating it in an airtight container won’t help it last longer. For safety reasons, play with the oobleck as much as you want and throw it out right after. Good thing it’s so easy and inexpensive to make!

Final Thoughts on Making the Oobleck

Oobleck is a wonderful sensory experience for kids of all ages. As your kids play with oobleck, as them how the oobleck feels on their hands. Bumpy? Smooth? Cold? Warm?

And make sure you check out Bartholomew and the Oobleck , a book by Dr. Seuss. Oobleck got its name from the sticky, green gobs in the book! Thanks, Dr. Seuss!

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Make Your Own Oobleck | STEAM Experiment for Kids

by Emily | Sep 11, 2019 | STEAM Experiments , STEAM for Kids | 0 comments

Note: This post contains affiliate links. You may read my disclosure here .

Ever since we made Oobleck as part of our Kid Wonder Box , my son has been asking to make it again because he had so much fun with it. Both my kids played with it for hours, pretending to be swamp monsters!

With Halloween just over a month away, this is a great time to do this activity with your kids. They can become swamp monsters, or you can color it like zombie blood, add fake eye balls…Or just keep it simple and play with it any way your child likes. 🙂

I love making Oobleck with my kids for several reasons:

• Kids love to play with it and get messy
• It is a unique and interesting non-Newtonian fluid (explained in the science section below)
• Easy and inexpensive to make yourself
• Easy to clean up
• Encourages kids to use their imaginations while playing with it
• Oobleck was named after the Dr. Seuss book, Bartholomew and the Oobleck , so you can incorporate reading into this activity

Let’s talk about the science behind Oobleck

Oobleck is a simple mixture of cornstarch and water that is a non-Newtonian fluid. Non-Newtonian fluids do not follow Newton’s law of viscosity, which states that fluids have a constant viscosity, independent of stress.

In non-Newtonian fluids the viscosity changes under force; in this case making the Oobleck more solid when force is applied, and more liquid when force is removed.

If you punch Oobleck it will harden. Once you stop the forward force from the punch, your fist will sink into the liquid. People have also done demonstrations walking on Oobleck like a solid walkway. When they stop walking they will sink into the liquid.

Source: Wikipedia – Non-Newtonian Fluid

Make your Own Oobleck

You and your kids will have a blast making and playing with Oobleck. Kids age 3+ should be able to help you make the Oobleck, and kids age 1+ will enjoy playing with it after you’ve mixed the ingredients together for them.

Oobleck is non-toxic, so it is taste safe if your little one sneaks a lick of it (it’s just water, cornstarch and food coloring). But avoid allowing your children to eat it – it won’t taste good!

The food coloring can stain anything it comes into contact with, so take that into consideration when deciding whether or not to add color (our hands all got stained green from the green food coloring when we played with it, but it washed off after a couple of washes).

Oobleck can be very messy to make and play with ( *see note below ). The good news is it cleans up easily with water. I suggest protecting your surfaces with a plastic covering or wax paper. The Oobleck won’t stick or get absorbed in plastic or wax covering, so your kids can play on these materials while keeping your table clean.

Oobleck would absorb into a cloth table covering, for example, so I wouldn’t recommend using something fabric based or absorbent to protect your table.

*Side note about the mess level of this experiment:

If you don’t like messes, this probably isn’t the best activity for you. If you asked me two years ago (or even one year ago) to do this experiment, I would have said NO WAY ! I like to keep a neat and tidy house, and anything that makes messes was off limits. No play dough, no slime, no sand, especially no Oobleck!

Eventually I realized how much learning, experimenting, and fun we were missing out by not doing these “messy” activities, so I gave it a try… And you know what? IT IS MESSY !

I DO still get nervous and frustrated as I see the mess grow. But then I see my kids playing and laughing and learning, and it makes the mess all ok.

Our clean up after the experiment today took less than 5 minutes. I’d say that mess was worth the short clean up time. 🙂

Materials Needed:

• Bartholomew and the Oobleck by Dr. Seuss (optional)
• 1 cup water
• 1.5 to 2 cups Cornstarch
• Food coloring (optional)
• Parchment paper/wax paper/plastic placemat/plastic tablecloth or other non-porous protection for your surface (optional)

• (Optional) Read Bartholomew and the Oobleck with your kids, you can find this book at your local library, bookstore, or Amazon

2. Add the water to the large bowl

3. Slowly add the cornstarch, mixing continuously as you add it (we used our hands to mix). Start with 1.5 cups, adding up to 2 cups to get the consistency right. Don’t worry, if you add too much corn starch just add some water. You want the Oobleck to retain fluid like properties, but be solid when a force is acting on it.

4. (Optional) Add 5 drops food coloring of your choice, and mix in well with the Oobleck

5. Experiment and play with the Oobleck! Listed below are some suggestions of ways to EXPERIMENT and PLAY with Oobleck :

5a. Liquid or solid? Ask your child if they think this is liquid or a solid and have them explain their choice.

5b. Once your child realizes it behaves as both liquid and solid, ask them to make it act like a liquid, then make it act like a solid.

5c. Can you roll the Oobleck into a ball? What happens when you stop rolling it?

5d. If you made a large quantity of Oobleck, can you walk on it?

5e. Become a swamp monster! Have your child let green Oobleck ooze and fall between their fingers like a swamp monster

5f. Make a pool of Oobleck on the table and hit it hard with your hand, does it feel solid under your hand. Once you stop the downward force, your hand will sink into the liquid Oobleck.

5h. Move your fingers slow, then very quickly through the Oobleck. How does it react?

5g. Place the Oobleck in a bag and drop it onto the table. How does it react? Play around with it inside the bag.

What Happened:

Oobleck is quick and easy to make, and endlessly fun to play with. Because it’s a non-Newtonian fluid it behaves as a solid when a force (such as a strong finger to hand) is placed on it, but it behaves as a liquid when force is removed. It will drip between your fingers like liquid, but will also harden into a solid ball when continuously rolled in the palms of your hands.

The Oobleck in the bag hits the table with a loud “thump” because it is behaving as a solid when accelerated falling (due to the force of gravity) is stopped by the upward force from the solid table preventing the bag from penetrating it. After the bag hits the table and comes to rest, there are no longer any forces acting on it, the Oobleck returns to a liquid state.

I recommend borrowing Bartholomew and the Oobleck by Dr. Seuss from your local library or you can purchase it on Amazon with the link below.

Oobleck got it’s name from this book (although the Oobleck in the book is made with magic and not cornstarch and water…). Even though the story doesn’t go into the science of Oobleck, it does teach the value of saying “I’m sorry,” which is a lesson we can all benefit from reading. 🙂

The first time I read Bartholomew and the Oobleck I was disappointed…The Oobleck in the book isn’t the same as the Oobleck we make, even though Oobleck as we know it is named from this book.

They don’t talk about science in the book because the Oobleck is made by magicians using unusual and strange ingredients. But my kids liked the book, so we have re-read it several times now…

I’ve come to appreciate the fun and silly story (as always from Dr. Suess) and the lovable Bartholomew with his adorable name and honest nature. Most importantly, I like the themes of simplicity, appreciating what you have, and owning up to mistakes by saying “I’m sorry.”

Making Oobleck can be a fun science activity and reading opportunity for you and your kids anytime of the year! It is especially fun around Halloween, because the non-Newtonian nature of Oobleck lends itself easily to creepy themes. 😉

Have you made Oobleck with your kids yet? Will you be trying this soon? What do you think about the book, will you read it with your kids?

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Hi, I’m Emily. I’m an engineer, mom, and wife. I encourage kids to love STEAM and motivate women to find personal happiness in their career and motherhood journeys.

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