A density tower is a visually appealing science experiment that demonstrates how different liquids layer based on their densities. Here's how to create one:
Materials
- A clear glass jar or cylinder
- Honey
- Corn syrup
- Maple syrup
- Milk
- Dish soap
- Water
- Vegetable oil
- Rubbing alcohol
Steps
- Arrange by Density: Gather your liquids and organize them from the most dense to the least dense. The order, based on the provided reference, should be:
- Honey (most dense)
- Corn syrup
- Maple syrup
- Milk
- Dish soap
- Water
- Vegetable oil
- Rubbing alcohol (least dense)
- Pour the Densest Liquid: Carefully pour a layer of the most dense liquid, which is honey, into the bottom of your jar. Use about a centimeter or so of honey. Try to avoid getting the liquid on the sides of the jar.
- Layer the Remaining Liquids: Gently and slowly pour each subsequent liquid on top of the previous one, in the order of density. A trick to help prevent layers from mixing is to pour the liquids down the side of the jar, or over the back of a spoon. The density tower order, as per the reference, from most to least dense is:
- Honey
- Corn Syrup
- Maple Syrup
- Milk
- Dish soap
- Water
- Vegetable Oil
- Rubbing Alcohol
- Observe the Layers: As you add each liquid, you’ll notice that they stack on top of each other. The most dense liquid will sit at the bottom and the least dense will be on top.
- Avoid Mixing: Try to pour each liquid carefully so that it doesn’t mix with the layer underneath.
Practical Tips for Success
- Pour slowly: To maintain distinct layers, pour liquids slowly and gently, especially along the sides of the container or over the back of a spoon.
- Use consistent amounts: Aim for similar amounts of each liquid to get a clear view of each layer.
- Use a clear container: A tall, straight-sided container will provide the best view of your layers.
- Be patient: As you add each liquid, take your time to pour carefully.
Why Does It Work?
The liquids in a density tower separate because of their densities. Density is a measure of how much "stuff" is packed into a given space. More dense liquids, like honey, have more mass packed into their volume than less dense liquids, like rubbing alcohol. The higher density liquids sink while the lower density liquids float on top.
Table of Layering Order
| Layer | Liquid | Density |
|---|---|---|
| Bottom | Honey | Highest |
| 2nd | Corn Syrup | |
| 3rd | Maple Syrup | |
| 4th | Milk | |
| 5th | Dish Soap | |
| 6th | Water | |
| 7th | Vegetable Oil | |
| Top | Rubbing Alcohol | Lowest |
