How to make oobleck

Oobleck is a super cool and easy project that's not just for kids but for anyone who loves a bit of quirky science fun. Oobleck can't decide if it's a solid or a liquid, changing its mind based on how you handle it. Here's a simple oobleck recipe to whip up your own batch of this magical goo, plus a little bit of the science magic behind it.

What you'll need for the classic Oobleck recipe

• 2 cups of cornstarch

• 1 cup of water

• Food coloring (optional)

• Mixing bowl

• Spoon

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch and water.

2. Mix well until the mixture has a thick and gooey consistency.

3. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to give your oobleck some color.

4. Play with your oobleck! You can try squeezing it in your hands, rolling it into a ball, or letting it drip from your fingers.

5. When you're done playing, store your oobleck in an airtight container or plastic bag to use again later.

The science behind oobleck

Oobleck gets its unique properties from a phenomenon known as "shear thickening." This means that when force is applied quickly to the mixture, it creates resistance and makes it act like a solid. But when the force is removed, it returns to its liquid state. This is why you can pick up oobleck and make it into a ball, but as soon as you stop applying pressure, it will drip through your fingers.

Tips and tricks

• If your oobleck becomes too runny, add more cornstarch. If it's too thick and hard to manipulate, add more water.

• For a fun experiment, you can place your bowl of oobleck on top of a speaker and see how the vibrations make it dance.

• Oobleck can be messy, so play with it over a tray or outside to make clean-up easier.

• Get creative with oobleck. Use it in sensory bins, make shapes or sculptures out of it, or even use it as a stress reliever by squeezing and squishing it between your fingers. 

FAQ about oobleck

Q: How can I make sure my oobleck doesn't dry out?

A: Keep your Oobleck in an airtight container or plastic bag when not in use to prevent it from drying out.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to my oobleck for more fun?

A: You can try adding glitter, small toys, or even scents like essential oils to your oobleck.

Q: Is oobleck safe for kids?

A: Oobleck is made from non-toxic ingredients and is safe for kids to play with as long as there’s a supervising adult. However, make sure they don't ingest it, as cornstarch can be a choking hazard.

Q: How long can I keep my oobleck for?

A: If stored properly, your oobleck can last for a few weeks. However, it may become less viscous over time and may need to be remixed with water to regain its consistency.

Q: Can I wash oobleck off surfaces and clothes?

A: You can use warm water and soap to clean oobleck off of some hard, non-porous surfaces like countertops or other food-safe surfaces. But it can leave stains on some surfaces and most fabrics, so avoid playing with it on clothing or furniture.

Q: Can I use oobleck for educational purposes?

A: Oobleck is a great way to teach kids about the properties of matter and how different forces can affect them. You can also experiment with different amounts of ingredients to see how they affect the consistency of oobleck.

Making and playing with oobleck is a ridiculously fun way to spend an afternoon, and it sneaks in a bit of learning about non-Newtonian fluids. So, gather your simple ingredients and get ready for some hands-on, gooey entertainment. Enjoy the mess and the magic! 

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