Density Stackers


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In this activity, learners investigate density as they discover how liquids separate to form density layers. Learners discover what happens when they add syrup, cooking oil, and water to a jar. They further investigate density by determining the locations where a piece of plastic, a grape, and a cork settle.

Quick Guide


Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes

Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes

Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students

Age Range:
Ages 8 - 11

Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity

Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)


  • 80-mL syrup
  • 1 glass jar
  • 80-mL cooking oil
  • 80-mL water
  • measuring cup
  • 1 small piece of plastic
  • 1 grape
  • 1 small cork
  • science journal

Subjects


  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Oceans and Water
  • Physical Sciences
    • States of Matter
      • Liquids
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Mass and Weight
      • Volume and Density

Informal Categories


  • Nature and Environment

Audience


To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other


Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • NASA Center for Distance Learning, Office of Education at NASA’s Langley Research Center

Rights: