Density Tower Jar Layering Experiment
Layer honey, dish soap, water, oil, and rubbing alcohol in a jar to create a colorful density tower — then drop objects in to see where they float.
What You'll Need
- 1Tall clear jar
- 2Honey
- 3Corn syrup
- 4Dish soap
- 5Water with food coloring
- 6Vegetable oil
- 7Rubbing alcohol with food coloring
- 8Small objects to drop in (grape, bead, cork)
What You'll Need
A tall clear jar or vase
Honey, corn syrup, dish soap, water (colored), vegetable oil, rubbing alcohol (colored differently)
Small objects: grape, cherry tomato, plastic bead, cork
How to Play
Pour honey into the jar first — it's the densest liquid.
Slowly layer corn syrup on top, pouring gently down the side.
Add dish soap, then colored water, then oil, then colored rubbing alcohol.
Let each layer settle before adding the next. Patience creates cleaner lines.
Admire the rainbow of layers floating on top of each other.
Now drop in objects one at a time. Predict: where will the grape stop? The cork?
Each object floats at the layer matching its own density.
Tips
Pour slowly down the side of the jar — pouring into the center mixes layers.
Color the water and rubbing alcohol different colors so each layer is distinct.
Denser liquids sink, less dense liquids float. This is the same principle that makes boats float and rocks sink.
Try objects your child chooses — coins, erasers, Legos. Predict first, test second.
The tower stays separated for hours. Move it gently to a display spot and check it again later.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 25 min, with 10 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: tall clear jar, honey, corn syrup, dish soap, water with food coloring, and 3 more items.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 8-12 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This activity has a moderate difficulty level. It may require some preparation or guidance, but is manageable for most families.
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