Flubber Recipe
Overview
Flubber is a fascinating polymer that kids love to play with due to its unique properties. It can stretch, bounce, and hold its shape, making it a perfect homemade toy that also doubles as a simple science experiment.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 cups white glue
- 3-5 drops food coloring (optional)
- 1 1/3 cups warm water
- 2 teaspoons borax powder
Instructions
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare Mixture #1: In a large bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups of water with 2 cups of white glue. Stir thoroughly until well combined. If desired, add 3-5 drops of food coloring to achieve the desired color. |
| 2 | Prepare Mixture #2: In a separate bowl, mix 1 1/3 cups of warm water with 2 teaspoons of borax powder. Stir until the borax powder is completely dissolved. |
| 3 | Combine Mixtures: Slowly pour the contents of Bowl #2 into Bowl #1 while stirring continuously. Use your hands to knead and mix the contents together thoroughly until the mixture becomes less sticky and starts to clump together. This is your Flubber forming! |
| 4 | Knead the Flubber: Lift and turn the mixture, kneading it until it reaches a uniform consistency. Discard any leftover liquid from the bowl. |
| 5 | Store: Store the Flubber in an airtight container when not in use. It can last for up to 2 weeks if stored properly. |
Playing with Flubber
Flubber’s unique properties allow for various fun activities:
- Stretching: Pull the Flubber gently to see how far it can stretch without breaking.
- Bouncing: Roll the Flubber into a ball and drop it on a hard surface to see it bounce.
- Covering: Stretch Flubber over the opening of a jar or container to create a makeshift lid.
- Rolling: Place small objects like golf balls on the Flubber and roll them to see how it interacts with different surfaces.
A Closer Look at Flubber
Flubber is essentially a polymer formed by linking polyvinyl acetate chains (from white glue) in a 3-dimensional structure using borate ions (from borax) and other chemical bonds. This chemical reaction creates a thick, stretchy substance that retains its shape and elasticity.
Safety Note
While Flubber is safe to handle, it should be kept away from carpet and hair as it can stick. White vinegar can act as a solvent if needed for cleaning.
Conclusion
Making Flubber is not only a fun activity for kids but also a great way to learn about polymers and chemical reactions. Enjoy exploring the endless possibilities of Flubber and let your creativity flow!
