Long before it was trending on The Big Bang Theory, my children have been mystified by the magic of, what we call, Oobleck. You may also know this as Magic Mud, Cornstarch Clay
The name oobleck comes from the Dr. Seuss book, “Bartholomew and the Oobleck“.
It’s a fun science experiment for kids of all ages that uses two simple ingredients: cornstarch and water.
Here’s how it went down on The Big Bang Theory:
Be warned, it can be a messy task!
Here’s how to make this squishy non-toxic goo that hardens in your hands when you squeeze it but flows like a liquid when you pour it.
Oobleck Ingredients:
1/2 cup Cornstarch
3/4 cup water
Oobleck Directions:
Combine Cornstarch with water and mix well.
What do you do with Oobleck?
It’s strange for certain.
It doesn’t splash.
Squeeze it hard and it turns into a solid.
Let go and watch it mutate to liquid.
The Science behind the Oobleck:
The mixture is called a “non-Newtonian” liquid (learn more on science learn).
It doesn’t follow Sir Issac Newton’s rule that individual liquids flow at consistent and predictable rates.
Instead, it can act as a solid and a liquid.
The Oobleck is actually a suspension where the grains of starch isn’t dissolved, but rather suspended and spread out in the water.
If you were patient and let the mixture set out for a time, the cornstarch would settle to the bottom of the bowl.
When it is being shaped, the cornstarch grains lock up and hold their shape.
Here is Oobleck in action:
Important:
Make sure you do not dump the Oobleck or Magic Mud down the drain – it will end the fun by clogging your drain.
Dump it in the trash.
We even store ours in Ziploc baggies.
You might also like making Borax Bouncing Balls.
How to Make Oobleck
Learn how to make oobleck, a fascinating science experiment for kids of all ages that uses two simple ingredients: cornstarch and water.
1/2 cup cornstarch
3/4 cup water
Combine cornstarch with water and mix well
Do not dispose of down drains
Store in Ziploc baggies.