Rainbow Magic: DIY Rainbow Paper

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Ages: 6-10

Objective: Engage children in a fun and colorful experiment to create their own rainbow paper while learning about chromatography and the properties of water.

Materials Needed:

  1. White coffee filters or filter paper
  2. Washable markers (assorted colors)
  3. Small cups or containers
  4. Water
  5. Droppers or pipettes
  6. Scissors
  7. Optional: Plastic trays or plates to contain spills

Procedure:

  1. Begin by cutting the coffee filters or filter paper into various shapes and sizes, such as squares, circles, or strips. Ensure they are small enough to fit inside the cups or containers.

  2. Flatten the cut pieces of paper and invite children to draw colorful designs or patterns on them using washable markers. Encourage them to use a variety of colors and to fill the paper with ink.

  3. Pour a small amount of water into each cup or container, enough to submerge the bottom without overflowing.

  4. Using droppers or pipettes, carefully drip water onto the colored designs on the paper. Start at the center of each design and watch as the water spreads outward, carrying the ink with it.

  5. Observe as the colors begin to blend and mix together, creating vibrant rainbow patterns on the paper.

  6. Allow the paper to dry completely before handling. Once dry, the rainbow paper can be used for various crafts or decorations.

Explanation:

  • The experiment demonstrates the principles of chromatography, a technique used to separate and analyze mixtures based on their components' different affinities for a solvent.
  • As water is added to the colored designs on the paper, it acts as the solvent, causing the ink to dissolve and spread out along the paper fibers.
  • Different ink colors contain different pigments with varying solubilities, resulting in the separation and migration of colors across the paper.

Extensions:

  1. Encourage children to experiment with different types of paper or absorbent materials to observe how they affect the results of the chromatography.
  2. Discuss with children the science behind chromatography and its applications in various fields, such as forensics, chemistry, and biology.
  3. Explore other chromatography techniques, such as using filter paper strips to separate ink dyes or analyzing the pigments in leaves or flower petals.
  4. Challenge kids to use their rainbow paper to create art projects, greeting cards, or bookmarks, incorporating the colorful designs into their creations.
  5. Host a chromatography art gallery where children can display and discuss their rainbow paper creations with family and friends.

Safety Note:

  • Ensure children handle markers and water droppers/pipettes with care to avoid spills or accidents. Remind them not to ingest any of the substances used in the experiment.

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