Kinetic Sand

Overview

Create a sand that is moldable and not (very) messy by combining sand and a chemical known as dimethicone.

Chemicals

Materials

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Affiliate links to chemicals.

*Note: The Sand can be purchased at a Hobby Store and the Astroglide can be purchased at Walmart/Target/CVS. 

  • Glass beaker

  • Graduated cylinder

  • Mortar and pestle

  • Stirring rod

Procedure

NOTE: I didn't see a big difference when I "cooked" the sand.  It is to remove any moisture from the sand so that the astroglide can connect better.  I am in Florida and did this experiment in the summer...nothing is removing humidity for us.

1. In mortar and pestle, crush sand.

2. Spread out on a baking sheet and bake at 120 degrees for 1 hour.

3.  In glass beaker, combine sand and astroglide with stirring rod. Mix vigorously.

The Science Behind the Reaction

Kinetic sand holds different properties with the amount of pressure being applied.  When you are molding the sand, you are applying pressure and it becomes more of a solid mass.  When the sand is left alone, pressure removed, it acts more like a liquid and spreads out.

Keep Experimenting!

Kinetic Slime

Add 20 mL of dish soap, 250 mL of glue, and 4 scoops of baking soda to turn this kinetic sand into kinetic slime.

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Timer

Build your sand into a tall castle.  When the sand melts back into place, your time is up!  Maybe use this to limit your screen time.