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Home » Early Years Science » Why does Jelly Set?

Why does Jelly Set?

Modified: May 3, 2023 · Published: Jun 15, 2012 by Emma Vanstone · This post may contain affiliate links · 11 Comments

Jelly is a great way to learn about changes of state as first it dissolves in hot water and then sets to become solid as it cools.

Why does jelly set?

Jelly sets because of a protein called collagen. Collagen is made up of three protein fibers wrapped around each other.

Jelly contains gelatin, which is made from collagen from animal bones and skin. When the gelatin is heated and mixed with water, the protein fibers unravel and come apart, so the jelly from the packet melts. As the jelly cools, the fibers coil up again, trapping water between them, which makes the jelly set.

We watched the jelly from the packet melt as we added the hot water and talked about bonds breaking down and how they reform as the jelly cools, causing it to set.

We also tried mixing different colours of jelly, which was a fun way to learn about primary and secondary colours.

different colour jellies for a colour mixing science activity

To make multicoloured, layered jelly, you need to let each layer set before adding the next.

Do you know fresh pineapple stops jelly setting?

What other colours do you think we could make?

Suitable for KS1 – changes of state.

Don’t forget to check out my other kitchen science experiments.

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Last Updated on May 3, 2023 by Emma Vanstone

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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

Comments

  1. MsXpat

    June 15, 2012 at 10:02 am

    I keep saying I’ll do this jelly play then I forget. You have inspired me. I’ll do it THIS weekend :0)

    Reply
    • ScienceSparks

      June 16, 2012 at 8:33 am

      There is so fun fun to be had with jelly!

      Reply
  2. Susan Mann

    June 15, 2012 at 3:10 pm

    Rainbow jelly is great fun to make but they boys don’t always have the patience. x

    Reply
    • ScienceSparks

      June 16, 2012 at 8:33 am

      Yes the layers take some time! Try the rainbow density tower if you want different colours instantly! x

      Reply
  3. Actually Mummy...

    June 15, 2012 at 9:02 pm

    I am so doing this tomorrow – great excuse to get more colours of jelly!

    Reply
    • ScienceSparks

      June 16, 2012 at 8:32 am

      Who doesn’t like jelly? Would be a fun party game too!

      Reply
  4. The Mummy Adventure

    June 17, 2012 at 11:34 pm

    These would be great if you were planning for a party too!

    Reply
  5. pinkoddy

    June 18, 2012 at 9:42 pm

    I never thought of talking about jelly in terms of bonds breaking down – I do like that :O)

    Reply
  6. maggy, red ted art

    June 25, 2012 at 8:15 pm

    Oooh what is not to love about jelly AND colour theory? Perfect experiment.

    Thanks for sharing on Kids Get Crafty!

    Maggy & Alissa

    Reply
  7. the mum

    June 20, 2014 at 12:14 pm

    Who doesnt like jelly?!?! It reminds me of my youth….And it just tastes so damn good!

    Reply
  8. Malinda

    March 08, 2017 at 9:24 pm

    Bueno, se menciona que el carnet B para automáticos no permite el uso de cambio manual:”el . Este último es un carnet restrictivo porque no permite que el usuario conduzca coches con transmisión manual”El enlace lo incluyo porque hablamos del carnet B para automáticos en otra ocasión de forma más esia­Ãcfpce.Gracias por los comentarios.

    Reply

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