Slime-Cornstarch

This is an experiment I think most have tried, but my kids hadn't had the pleasure until today.
We are learning about Polymers in science for the next little bit.
What's a polymer?
Materials made up of long chains of identical molecules called monomers...yadi yadi yada. I don't know, but chemists found a way to make synthetic ones that help make all sorts of stuff like toothbrushes, basketballs and even ice cream.
SO I am a fan of polymers.
Plus this slime is a polymer, and no matter how many times you see it or make it, it's just plain cool.Here is the basic recipe for enough to get good and messy and entertain your kids (or your husband) for a good long time.

• 1/3 c. water
• 5 drops food coloring (optional)
• 3/4 c. cornstarch

Put water and food coloring in a bowl, and then sprinkle the cornstarch into the bowl a little at a time until it is all in the bowl.

Let it sit for 3-4 minutes while you try your darndest to explain polymers to your kids, and why this is a non-Newtonian fluid because of cross-links of molecules and the right proportion of ingredients. Or you can just eat a cookie while waiting. Your choice.

Now reach your hand in and make a ball with the stuff and then relax your hand and let the ooey gooiness run over your hand.

It is super cool, right?

You can store your slime in a plastic bag for future polymer discussions.

Recipe from book "Cool Chemistry Concoctions" by Joe Rhatigan and Veronika Alice Gunter.