One way to illustrate density is to pour different liquids ( which have different densities ) on top of each other. The liquids with the greatest density sink to the bottom.
I tried to make a summer ice cream version, but the sprinkles dissolved in the water making it a bit murky looking.
We have a fuller explanation of density here.
Why does this work?
Each of the liquids have a different mass of molecules or different numbers of parts squashed into the same volume of liquid. This means they have different densities and therefore one can sit on top of the other – the more dense a liquid is the heavier it is.
Do you think you could float small objects on each of the different levels? We’d love to see a photo if you can.
I have lots more density demonstrations here.
Spectacular Summer Science
Week 1
Day 1 – Baking Soda Ice Cubes
Day 2 – Slipping and Sliding
Day 3 – Fun Heart Rate Investigation
Day 4 – Mini Beast Hunt
Day 5 – Pretty Flowers
Week 2
Day 1 – Splatter patterns
Day 2 – Monster Tea Party
Day 3 – Dirty Potatoes
Natalie
August 1, 2013 at 11:49 pmIce cream density! That’s an awesome idea 🙂 Pinning it
Emily
August 2, 2013 at 3:28 pmSuch a perfect demonstration! x
Kay
September 3, 2017 at 9:58 pmBut what do I do with the density experiment after? Can I throw it down the sink?