You can make cornstarch chunks, also known as “oobleck,” quickly in the microwave. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
- Cornstarch
- Water
Instructions:
- Prepare a Microwave-Safe Bowl:
- Use a microwave-safe bowl or container that is large enough to hold the oobleck mixture. Make sure it’s clean and dry.
- Combine Cornstarch and Water:
- In the bowl, mix cornstarch and water. There’s no specific ratio, but a common starting point is about 2 parts cornstarch to 1 part water. You can adjust as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Stir the Mixture:
- Stir the cornstarch and water mixture thoroughly until you achieve a thick, gooey consistency. The mixture should resemble honey or molasses.
- Microwave in Short Bursts:
- Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it in short bursts, typically 10-15 seconds at a time. The microwave settings may vary, so keep a close eye on it.
- After each heating burst, carefully remove the bowl (it may be hot) and stir the mixture. Be cautious as it can get hot spots.
- Continue microwaving and stirring until the oobleck reaches the desired chunky consistency. It should temporarily harden when you apply force to it but flow like a liquid when at rest.
- Allow it to Cool:
- Once you’ve achieved the desired consistency, allow the oobleck to cool for a few minutes. It will become less hot and easier to handle.
- Play and Experiment:
- Have fun experimenting with your cornstarch chunks or oobleck. Try rolling it into a ball, then letting it flow through your fingers. Test how it briefly hardens on impact when you punch or tap it.
- Dispose or Store:
- Oobleck can be disposed of by allowing it to dry out or washing it down the drain with plenty of water. If you want to keep it for later use, store it in a sealed container.
Remember that oobleck can be messy, so it’s a good idea to play with it on a surface that’s easy to clean or outdoors where spills won’t be a problem. It’s a fun and fascinating science experiment that demonstrates the properties of non-Newtonian fluids.