Floating Shapes

In this fun and easy experiment, kids will draw simple shapes and watch them "come alive" as they amazingly lift and float over a plate of water. It's not magic, it's SCI ENCE!

Fun Facts/Information:

• Dry erase ink is insoluble, meaning it will not dissolve in water.
• Dry erase ink is less dense than water.
• Dry erase ink contains a silicone polymer, which allows the ink to spread evenly and stick to itself, rather than sticking to a board or writing surface. This allows water to go underneath the ink, causing it to float!

Materials:

• Scissors
• New(er) dry erase markers (dried out markers won't work)
• Plastic plate or dinner plate (must have a smooth, glossy finish)
• Measuring cup
• Water

Procedure

1. Check each dry erase marker to make sure they are not dried out.
2. Use the dry erase marker to draw a shape onto your plate. You will want to make sure that each shape has 3-4 thick coats of marker. Do not lift your marker up from the plate until all coats on the shape are completed.
3. If you'd like, you can draw other shapes onto your plate by repeating step 2.
4. Let your shape(s) dry for about 1 minute. You can carefully fan your plate to help it dry.
5. Use your liquid measuring cup to pour water very slowly into the dish, making sure to not pour it directly onto the shape(s). Pour enough water to cover the bottom of the plate. Watch your shape(s) to see what happens! If the shape doesn't lift on its own, gently tilt the plate to help loosen it from the bottom.

Follow-Up/Extensions:

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