Fun Science Project of the Week: Rainbow in a Glass

Fun Science Project of the Week Rainbow in a Glass From Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D., your Guide to Chemistry Technically, you could drink the results of this project, though you would have to have a sweet tooth. The rainbow is created by layering different concentrations of colored sugar solutions. The more-concentrated solutions have a higher density than the less-concentrated solutions, so if you pour the solutions from most-to-least concentrated (dense), they stay separate. Make a Rainbow in a Glass Fun with Density and Concentration  For the best effect, use a tall, narrow glass to display your rainbow. I have found liquid food coloring works quite a lot better than gel food coloring. I was surprised by how long the layers stay separate. You can keep the rainbow as a decoration on your table for several days before the colors blend together. More about Density and Concentration Red, White and Blue Density Column  The rainbow column uses layers of the same substance (sugar), just at different concentrations. The red, white, and blue column is a project that uses chemicals that already have different densities and colors. Calculate Concentration There are several ways to calculate and express concentration. Molarity is commonly used in chemistry. Mass percent and molality are other popular units. It's helpful to be able to calculate concentration yourself and to be able to convert between the different units. Elements Ranked by Density You know that helium is lighter (less dense) than iron, but can you name the least dense and most dense elements? Do you think density always increases as you move across and down the periodic table? Got Questions? Visit the Chemistry Forum  You can ask and answer questions about science projects at About's chemistry forum. You'll find scientists, engineers, teachers, students, parents, and other people just like you with an interest in science. Science Project Photo Gallery Are you looking for more projects to try? Check out this photo gallery of science projects. Science Quizzes Ok, so you can do cool science projects, but how much do you know about science? Test yourself with one of these quick multiple choice quizzes! Chemistry Activities for Kids E-Course Here's another free newsletter that might interest you. Are you ready for kid-friendly chemistry activities and games? Each e-course newsletter features safe projects, games or quizzes, and links for additional learning. Learn about the elements, grow crystals, and more! When you sign up you'll get one newsletter a week until you've gotten them all. Sign me up!