Rainbow STEM Capillary Action and Properties of Water Molecules Experiment

This experiment is so amazing and easy to do to illustrate capillary action and properties of the water molecule. This science activity seems almost magical as water "walks" between cups of red, yellow, and blue to blend to form the secondary colors. Students use science practice skills to make observations and predictions about what they see. The activity wraps up with a reading passage explaining the the science behind the activity including properties of the water molecule, adhesion, cohesion, and capillary action - students write a conclusion to explain what happened.

The reading passage and corresponding questions are written for grades 6-8.

Want to do this experiment with younger students? Check out my K-2 version that focuses on color mixing.

Want it for upper elementary? - check out my 3-5 version .

Want all the grade levels? This activity is part of my Rainbow STEM Bundle . All 3 grade bands (K-8 options!) at an incredible price!

Materials needed: 7 clear plastic cups, paper towels, water, red, yellow, and blue food coloring (or liquid water colors)


Tell me how it goes! Leave feedback!!

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Want other STEM products? Check out these STEM Challenges that use the Engineering Design process:
♥ Spaghetti Structures - Earthquake Design
♥ Water Bottle Flip Challenge
♥ Marshmallow Launcher

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