Is it a solid or liquid?
What is it?
Oobleck is a pressure dependent substance known as a shear thickening Non-Newtonian Fluid. Applying pressure to the mixture increases the viscosity, or thickness. So a quick hit to the mixture and it feels like a solid, but slowly sink your hand in and it feels like a liquid
OOBLECK
How to make it
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Mix the food coloring into the water and pour it over the cornstarch, slowly mixing as you go.
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Keep adding water until the mixture becomes thick but not solid.
What you'll need
• 1 cup of water
• 1 to 2 cups of cornstarch
• Mixing bowl
• Food coloring (optional)
What do you notice?
Try hitting the oobleck and compare it to sinking your hands in. What happens when you just hold a handful and squeeze it? What about when you just let it sit in your palm?