Cosmic Creations: DIY Galaxy Slime

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Ages: 6-12

Objective: Engage children in a fun and sensory-filled activity to create their own galaxy slime while exploring basic chemistry concepts.

Materials Needed:

  1. Clear school glue (e.g., Elmer's Glue)
  2. Liquid starch or laundry detergent (containing borax)
  3. Glitter (assorted colors)
  4. Food coloring (blue, purple, and black)
  5. Mixing bowl
  6. Spoon or spatula
  7. Disposable gloves (optional)
  8. Small containers or jars for storing slime

Procedure:

  1. Pour approximately ½ cup of clear glue into a mixing bowl.

  2. Add a few drops of blue and purple food coloring to the glue, mixing well until the desired color is achieved. For a darker effect, add a drop of black food coloring.

  3. Sprinkle glitter into the colored glue mixture, stirring to distribute the glitter evenly. Use a combination of silver, blue, and purple glitter to create a cosmic effect.

  4. Slowly add liquid starch or laundry detergent to the glue mixture, stirring continuously. Add the starch/detergent gradually until the mixture begins to clump together and pull away from the sides of the bowl.

  5. Once the slime starts to form, knead it with your hands until it reaches the desired consistency. If the slime is too sticky, add a small amount of liquid starch/detergent and continue kneading.

  6. Optional: Wear disposable gloves while handling the slime to minimize mess.

  7. Continue adding glitter to the slime as desired, kneading it into the mixture to create a galaxy-like appearance.

  8. Store the galaxy slime in airtight containers or jars when not in use to prevent drying out.

Explanation:

  • Slime is a non-Newtonian fluid made from a polymer (in this case, the glue) and a cross-linking agent (the borax in the liquid starch or detergent).
  • When the borax molecules in the starch/detergent react with the polymer molecules in the glue, they form cross-links that give the slime its unique stretchy and gooey properties.
  • The addition of glitter and food coloring enhances the visual appeal of the slime, creating a galaxy-inspired aesthetic.

Extensions:

  1. Encourage children to experiment with different ratios of glue to starch/detergent to observe how it affects the texture and consistency of the slime.
  2. Discuss the science behind polymers and cross-linking agents, and how they are used in various everyday products.
  3. Explore other variations of slime by adding different textures or sensory elements, such as foam beads, sequins, or scented oils.
  4. Challenge kids to create their own slime recipes or themed slime creations inspired by their favorite colors, characters, or environments.
  5. Host a "slime party" where children can share their slime creations and trade recipes with each other.

Safety Note:

  • Remind children not to ingest the slime or any of its ingredients. Wash hands thoroughly after handling slime.

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