How to Float a Needle
Looking for a simple science experiment to do with kids? Try amazing your kids by floating a needle on water. This science experiment also teaches the concept of surface tension. Water molecules are strongly attracted to each other, creating the surface tension that keeps the needle afloat.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Fill a glass with water until it's full to almost overflowing.
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2
Cut a piece of toilet paper so that it's slightly longer than the needle in all dimensions.
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3
Gently lay the needle on top of the paper.
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4
Gently lay the paper (with the needle) on the water so the paper is floating on top of the water.
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5
Wait for the paper to sink. You might have to help it along by gently pushing down the sides. The needle, though, should stay afloat.
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1
Tips & Warnings
If you add a little soap to the water, it will break the surface tension and the needle will sink.
Make sure the needle is dry or this science experiment won't work!
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Comments
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so great Experiment for kids. I'm sure they like it.
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Found IT! That's For my Homework :PP.
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John Bradley
Dec 19, 2008
Thats a great idea with the toilet paper! I have the same experiment on ehow only without the toilet paper and with pictures and believe me, it aint easy holding the camera, doing the experiment, trying not to make a mess! All the while holding off a 2 year old highly
