Density is such a visual and hands-on concept for kids to learn. I'm looking for simple density experiments that use things like oil, water, honey, and other kitchen ingredients. These everyday materials science experiments are perfect for teaching basic physics concepts. Any favorite layered liquid experiments or floating/sinking activities?
The classic density tower is always a hit. Layer honey, corn syrup, dish soap, water, vegetable oil, and rubbing alcohol in a clear glass. Each liquid has different density so they don't mix. Then drop in small objects like a bolt, grape, cork, etc and watch where they float. Perfect simple density experiments.
We do density experiments with eggs in salt water. Fresh egg sinks in plain water but floats in salt water. You can gradually add salt to see exactly when it starts floating. It's one of those everyday materials science experiments that demonstrates buoyancy and density in a very clear way.
We love the rainbow in a glass density experiment. You make different colored sugar solutions with varying concentrations. The most dense (most sugar) goes on bottom, then layer carefully with less dense solutions. Creates beautiful colored layers that don't mix. It's chemistry with food coloring meets physics.