Magic sand is a new science experiment for us to learn and try out this week and it did not disappoint!
What is Magic Sand?
“To produce magic sand, companies start with standard sand, silicon dioxide, and then add a very thin layer of a chemical called trimethylhydroxysilane. This coating makes the sand hydrophobic, or water-repellent. That’s in contrast to standard beach sand, which is hydrophilic, or water-loving” (excerpt taken from c&en.org).
So basically, this sand is “waterproof” but still moldable underwater! It’s like the opposite of beach sand in the sense that beach sand can’t be molded underwater but can be molded above water. And with magic sand, it can be moldable underwater but it slips right through your fingers and un-moldable above water!
Personally, my boys and I loved playing with this magic sand and honestly, it was pretty relaxing scooping it up and watching it slip through our fingers. You can check out our video below to see what it’s like.
Setting up was really easy. I used a clear bin (this was actually a cover from one of those disposable aluminum pans…whatever works right! lol), I used room temperature tap water, and magic sand. I also threw in some shark toys as this is shark week, so I wanted a themed play for the boys.
Clean up is easy too; just use a fine mesh strainer to pick up the sand and store in a container. I poured the water outside in the lawn.
If you are learning about sharks, be sure to also check out our other shark crafts such as how to make an origami shark bookmark!
Materials:
Water
Toys (optional)
Clear Bowl
Directions:
- Pour water into bowl or large beaker.
- Carefully open the packet of magic sand. I suggest adding one color and admiring the science behind it before adding in all of the colors. Once all of the colors are mixed, it cannot be unmixed.
- Pour magic sand into the water and if it is floating, just gently push it down into the water.
- Mold the sand underwater.
- Scoop the sand above water.
- Enjoy a discussion about the uses of magic sand as well the characteristics of it.
What do you think of it?
Magic Sand Video
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