Chemical reactions are what happens when different substances or materials mix together and make something new. Today you’re going to get to make art using a chemical reaction! Watch what happens with salt absorbs water and food coloring. Do you have any predictions?
Activity best for children ages 3 and up (with adult supervision!)
Materials
- Paper, cardstock, or cardboard
- Pencil, crayon, or paper
- Liquid glue
- Salt
- Food coloring
- Water
- Water dropper, straw, toothbrush, or fine-point paintbrush
- Small plastic cups or bowls
- Tray, baking sheet, or box
Questions to answer while experimenting:
- How do you think salt will interact with water?
- Why do you think this is happening?
Directions
Step 1
Fill small cups or bowls halfway with water. Add drops of food coloring to change the color of the water (Recommended: 10 drops of food coloring per cup or bowl).
Step 2
Write your name, numbers, or draw a picture with your pencil on the piece of paper or cardboard. Then, trace over this with white glue.
Step 3
Sprinkle salt over your glue image. Set aside your image to dry.
Step 4
After the glue has dried add your liquid watercolors 1 drop at a time using your water dropper, straw, toothbrush, or paintbrush.
Notice how the water interacts with the salt and enjoy your art!
Be sure to share your salt-absorbing art with us on Instagram by tagging @sdcdm320.
Do you have questions about this activity? Email Education@sdcdm.org