Liquids can float and sink just as solid objects can. It all depends on something called " density." A substance with a lower density weighs less than the same volume of one with a higher density. An object or liquid will float only in a liquid more dense than itself.



You will need: Colored Water, Syrup, Vegetable Oil, Large Container, Selection of objects to float.



1. Carefully pour syrup into the container until it is a quarter full. It is easier if you pour the syrup over the back of a spoon.

2. Slowly pour the same amount of vegetable oil into the container. Then add the same amount of colored water.






3. The three liquids seperate into three layers and float on each other. Now add the objects you plan to float.







4. The objects float at different levels. They sink until they reach a liquid of a higher density than themselves. They float on that liquid.



Water is more dense than the oil but less dense than the syrup.

Science Behind It

Science Standards

Mini Lesson

Me and my sister :)