DIY Glowing Water Experiment

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Ages: 8-12

Objective: Introduce children to the principles of fluorescence and ultraviolet (UV) light by creating their own glowing water using common household materials.

Materials Needed:

  1. Tonic water (containing quinine)
  2. Blacklight or UV flashlight
  3. Clear glass or container
  4. Optional: Food coloring (for added visual effect)

Procedure:

  1. Pour tonic water into a clear glass or container. Ensure there is enough tonic water to fill the glass at least halfway.

  2. Turn off the lights or conduct the experiment in a dimly lit room.

  3. Optional: Add a few drops of food coloring to the tonic water to enhance the visual effect.

  4. Shine the blacklight or UV flashlight onto the tonic water and observe as it begins to glow brightly.

  5. Experiment with moving the blacklight around the glass to observe how the glow changes in intensity and distribution.

Explanation:

  • Tonic water contains quinine, a compound that exhibits fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light.
  • When UV light from the blacklight shines on the quinine molecules in the tonic water, they absorb the energy and then emit it back in the form of visible light, creating the glowing effect.

Extensions:

  1. Experiment with different brands of tonic water to observe any variations in the intensity or color of the glow.
  2. Discuss with children the science behind fluorescence and how it is used in various applications, such as in fluorescent lamps and certain types of paints.
  3. Encourage children to hypothesize what might happen if they dilute the tonic water with regular water or other liquids.
  4. Explore the history of quinine and its use in medicine as a treatment for malaria.
  5. Challenge kids to create their own glowing water designs or patterns using multiple colors of tonic water and food coloring.

Safety Note:

  • Be cautious when handling the blacklight or UV flashlight. Avoid shining the light directly into the eyes. Remind children not to ingest any of the substances used in the experiment.

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