This was a pretty cool science experiment that we had to try- Inverting a bottle full of water with only a piece of tissue “holding” the water inside…and then putting toothpicks inside without water falling out! My boys were completely amazed and loved testing it out. We had some fails, but it was a great way to learn and figure out how to not make all the water rush out the next time. Check out our video below!
I highly recommend doing this activity outside, over a container, or inside your kitchen sink!
Materials:
Empty Bottle or Flask (I found that using an empty bottle 16oz or a flask/graduated cylinder that has a small opening is better for this to work).
Measuring cup for water
A Paper Towel Square
Bin to catch the overflow of water
Directions:
- Place a few drops of food coloring into an empty bottle.
- Add water into the empty bottle until it starts to overflow.
- Using a tissue square, place it over the opening of the bottle/flask and press in the sides to “seal” it closed.
- Flip the bottle of water upside down in one quick motion.
- Insert toothpicks one at a time. The water stays inside!
How does the water stay inside after being poked with a toothpick?
When you invert a glass of water with a piece of tissue around the top, a little bit of water might leak out. This causes the volume or space above the water to increase while the air pressure decreases. The air pressure on the outside of the glass is now greater, keeping the water in.
Watch the video here:
Latest Posts:
*Adult Supervision Is Required For All Activities*