If you're looking for a fun and easy science experiment to do at home, making non-Newtonian fluid with potatoes is a great option. This type of fluid doesn't behave like a typical liquid, as it can become solid under pressure. In this article, we'll go through the steps of making non-Newtonian fluid with potato, along with some tips and FAQs to help you along the way.
Description
A non-Newtonian fluid is a type of fluid that doesn't follow the laws of Newtonian physics. Unlike a typical liquid, it can become solid or behave like a thick liquid when pressure is applied. Some common examples of non-Newtonian fluids are Oobleck, Silly Putty, and slime. Making non-Newtonian fluid with potato is a fun and easy way to explore the properties of this type of fluid.
How to Make Non-Newtonian Fluid with Potato
Here's what you'll need to make non-Newtonian fluid with potato:
- 2 cups of water
- 1 cup of potato flakes
- A large bowl
- A spoon or whisk
Follow these steps to make the non-Newtonian fluid:
- In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of water and 1 cup of potato flakes.
- Stir the mixture until it becomes a thick paste.
- Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to thicken.
- Stir the mixture again to make sure it's well combined.
- Your non-Newtonian fluid is now ready to use!
Step by Step
Here's a more detailed step-by-step guide to making non-Newtonian fluid with potato:
- Start by measuring out 2 cups of water and 1 cup of potato flakes. You can find potato flakes at most grocery stores.
- In a large bowl, mix the water and potato flakes together using a spoon or whisk. The mixture will be thin at first, but keep stirring until it becomes a thick paste.
- Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to thicken. You should see it start to become more solid as it sits.
- Stir the mixture again to make sure it's well combined. You want the potato flakes to be evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Your non-Newtonian fluid is now ready to use! You can experiment with it by squishing it, rolling it into a ball, or even trying to walk on it.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your non-Newtonian fluid:
- Experiment with different amounts of water and potato flakes to find the consistency you like best.
- If your mixture is too thin, add more potato flakes. If it's too thick, add more water.
- Try adding food coloring to your mixture to make it more colorful.
- Store your non-Newtonian fluid in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for several days.
FAQ
Here are some common questions about making non-Newtonian fluid with potato:
What makes the mixture solid?
The potato flakes in the mixture absorb the water and create a network of starch chains. When pressure is applied, the starch chains lock together and create a solid-like consistency.
Can I use a different type of starch?
Yes, you can use cornstarch or tapioca starch instead of potato flakes. The process is the same, but the amount of water and starch you use may vary.
Is non-Newtonian fluid safe to play with?
Yes, non-Newtonian fluid made with food-grade ingredients like potato flakes is safe to play with. Just be sure not to ingest it.
Hair Care
While making non-Newtonian fluid with potato is a fun science experiment, it's important to take care of your hair while doing it. The potato flakes can be drying to your hair, so be sure to wash your hair thoroughly after playing with the mixture. You may also want to apply a deep conditioning treatment to help restore moisture to your hair.
Overall, making non-Newtonian fluid with potato is a fun and educational activity that's perfect for kids and adults alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a substance that behaves like no other. Give it a try and see what kind of fun you can have!
