How To Make Non-Newtonian Fluid: A Fun Science Experiment

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 58 views

Have you ever heard of a substance that can act like both a solid and a liquid? That's the magic of non-Newtonian fluids! Creating your own non-Newtonian fluid is a super cool science experiment that's easy to do at home with just a few simple ingredients. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process step-by-step, explain the science behind it, and give you some fun ideas to explore with your new bizarre substance. Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of non-Newtonian fluids!

What is Non-Newtonian Fluid?

Before we jump into making our own non-Newtonian fluid, let's understand what it actually is. Non-Newtonian fluids are substances that don't follow Newton's law of viscosity. In simpler terms, their viscosity (resistance to flow) changes depending on the amount of stress or force applied to them. Unlike Newtonian fluids like water or oil, which have a constant viscosity regardless of the force applied, non-Newtonian fluids can become thicker or thinner when you squeeze, stir, or shake them. This unique property makes them incredibly fun to play with and explore.

There are two main types of non-Newtonian fluids: shear-thickening and shear-thinning. Shear-thickening fluids, like the cornstarch mixture we'll be making, become more viscous (thicker) when stress is applied. That means when you hit it or apply pressure, it feels solid. Shear-thinning fluids, on the other hand, become less viscous (thinner) when stress is applied. Think of paint – it thins out when you brush it, making it easier to spread. Non-Newtonian fluids are used in a variety of applications, from bulletproof vests to shock absorbers. Their ability to change viscosity on demand makes them incredibly versatile.

The most common example of a non-Newtonian fluid is a mixture of cornstarch and water, often referred to as "oobleck." When you apply pressure to oobleck, the cornstarch particles quickly bind together, causing the mixture to act like a solid. But when you release the pressure, the particles separate, and the mixture flows like a liquid. This strange behavior is what makes non-Newtonian fluids so fascinating and fun to experiment with. Other examples of non-Newtonian fluids include ketchup, toothpaste, and some types of silly putty. Each of these substances exhibits viscosity changes based on the stress applied to them.

Materials You'll Need

To create your non-Newtonian fluid, you'll only need a few simple materials that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here's what you'll need:

Cornstarch: This is the key ingredient that gives the fluid its non-Newtonian properties. You'll need about 1-2 cups, depending on the size of the batch you want to make.
Water: обычная tap water will work just fine. You'll need about 1 cup, but the exact amount may vary depending on the cornstarch.
Mixing Bowl: A bowl large enough to hold the cornstarch and water and allow you to mix them easily.
Mixing Utensil: A spoon, spatula, or even your hands will work for mixing the ingredients.
Food Coloring (Optional): If you want to add some color to your non-Newtonian fluid, a few drops of food coloring will do the trick. Gel or liquid food coloring both work well.
Protective Surface: It's a good idea to cover your work surface with newspaper or a plastic tablecloth to prevent any mess.

That's all you need! With these simple materials, you'll be ready to make your own non-Newtonian fluid and explore its unique properties.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you've gathered your materials, let's get started on creating your non-Newtonian fluid. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you'll have your own oobleck in no time:

Combine the Ingredients: In your mixing bowl, pour in the cornstarch. Gradually add the water, mixing as you go. Start with a ratio of about 2 parts cornstarch to 1 part water. If you're using food coloring, add a few drops to the water before mixing it in.
Mix Thoroughly: Continue mixing the cornstarch and water until you have a smooth, thick mixture. It should be difficult to stir, and you should feel resistance as you mix. If the mixture is too runny, add more cornstarch. If it's too thick, add a little more water. The key is to find the right consistency.
Test the Consistency: Once you think you have the right consistency, test it by tapping the surface of the mixture with your finger. If it feels solid upon impact but then yields to your touch, you've got it! You should be able to pick up a handful of the mixture and roll it into a ball, but it will melt back into a liquid when you stop applying pressure.
Adjust as Needed: If the mixture is not behaving as expected, don't worry! It may take some experimenting to get the right consistency. Just keep adding small amounts of cornstarch or water until you achieve the desired effect.
Play and Explore: Once your non-Newtonian fluid is ready, it's time to play and explore! Try hitting it, squeezing it, and rolling it into a ball. Observe how it changes its behavior depending on the amount of pressure you apply. Have fun experimenting with this bizarre substance!

The Science Behind It

So, how does this magical mixture work? The science behind non-Newtonian fluids lies in the behavior of the cornstarch particles in water. When you mix cornstarch and water, the cornstarch particles become suspended in the water, creating a suspension. At rest, the water acts as a lubricant, allowing the particles to move freely past each other, giving the mixture a liquid-like consistency.

However, when you apply pressure or stress to the mixture, the water is squeezed out from between the cornstarch particles. This causes the particles to rub against each other, increasing the friction and causing the mixture to become more viscous (thicker). In other words, the applied pressure forces the cornstarch particles to bind together, creating a temporary solid-like structure. When the pressure is released, the water flows back in, and the particles separate, returning the mixture to its liquid state.

This phenomenon is known as shear thickening, where the viscosity of the fluid increases with applied stress. The cornstarch particles' rapid and reversible binding is what gives the non-Newtonian fluid its unique properties. It's important to note that the concentration of cornstarch in the water is crucial. Too much water, and the mixture will be too runny to exhibit the non-Newtonian behavior. Too much cornstarch, and the mixture will be too solid. The perfect balance is key to achieving the desired effect.

Fun Things to Do with Your Non-Newtonian Fluid

Now that you've successfully created your own non-Newtonian fluid, it's time to have some fun with it! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Walking on Water: If you make a large batch of non-Newtonian fluid in a kiddie pool or a large container, you can actually walk on it! The key is to keep moving and apply constant pressure. If you stand still, you'll sink right in.
Hammer Time: Try hitting the surface of the non-Newtonian fluid with a hammer. You'll be surprised at how solid it feels upon impact.
Speaker Test: Place a small amount of non-Newtonian fluid on top of a speaker and play some music. The vibrations will cause the fluid to dance and move in strange and fascinating ways.
Glove Test: Fill a glove with the non-Newtonian fluid and try to punch it. The fluid will absorb the impact, making it feel like you're hitting a solid object.
DIY Stress Ball: Fill a balloon with the non-Newtonian fluid and tie it off. You now have a squishy, stress-relieving ball that feels both solid and liquid at the same time.

Remember to always supervise children when they are playing with non-Newtonian fluids, and be sure to clean up any spills promptly. Have fun exploring the weird and wonderful properties of this amazing substance!

Storage and Disposal

Proper storage and disposal are essential to keeping your non-Newtonian fluid experiment safe and environmentally friendly. When you're not playing with your non-Newtonian fluid, it's important to store it properly to prevent it from drying out or becoming contaminated. The best way to store it is in an airtight container, such as a plastic container with a lid or a resealable bag. This will help to keep the mixture moist and prevent it from forming a hard crust on the surface.

Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. This will help to prolong the life of your non-Newtonian fluid and keep it in good condition for future experiments. It's also a good idea to label the container clearly so that you know what's inside and avoid any accidental ingestion or misuse.

When it's time to dispose of your non-Newtonian fluid, do not pour it down the drain! Cornstarch can clog drains and cause plumbing problems. Instead, allow the mixture to dry out completely. Once it's dry, it will turn into a solid block of cornstarch that you can easily break up and dispose of in the trash. Alternatively, you can spread the mixture out on a flat surface to dry more quickly.

Avoid composting the non-Newtonian fluid, as it may attract pests. By following these simple storage and disposal guidelines, you can ensure that your non-Newtonian fluid experiment is both fun and responsible.

Troubleshooting Tips

Even with the best instructions, you might encounter some challenges when making your non-Newtonian fluid. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you overcome common issues:

Mixture is Too Runny: If your mixture is too runny, it means you need to add more cornstarch. Gradually add small amounts of cornstarch, mixing well after each addition, until you achieve the desired consistency.
Mixture is Too Thick: If your mixture is too thick, it means you need to add more water. Gradually add small amounts of water, mixing well after each addition, until you achieve the desired consistency.
Mixture is Clumpy: If your mixture is clumpy, it could be due to the cornstarch not being fully dissolved in the water. Try mixing the ingredients more vigorously, or add a small amount of water to help dissolve the clumps.
Mixture Separates: Over time, the cornstarch and water may separate, with the cornstarch settling to the bottom of the container. This is normal. Simply stir the mixture well before using it to re-suspend the cornstarch particles.
Mold Growth: If you notice any mold growth in your non-Newtonian fluid, it's time to discard it. Mold can grow if the mixture is not stored properly or if it becomes contaminated. To prevent mold growth, always store your non-Newtonian fluid in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

By following these troubleshooting tips, you can overcome common challenges and ensure that your non-Newtonian fluid experiment is a success.

Conclusion

Creating your own non-Newtonian fluid is a fun, educational, and mind-blowing science experiment that you can easily do at home. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a substance that acts like both a solid and a liquid, defying our everyday expectations of matter. Whether you're a student, a teacher, or simply a curious individual, exploring the properties of non-Newtonian fluids is a fantastic way to learn about physics, chemistry, and the wonders of the natural world.

From understanding the science behind shear thickening to experimenting with different applications, there's no limit to what you can discover with this amazing substance. So, gather your materials, follow the instructions, and get ready to dive into the fascinating world of non-Newtonian fluids. Who knows, you might even come up with your own unique experiments and applications for this incredible material!

So there you have it, folks! Making non-Newtonian fluid is a breeze and a whole lot of fun. Get your hands dirty, explore its weird properties, and impress your friends with this cool science trick. Have fun experimenting, and remember, science is all about exploring and discovering new things. Happy mixing!