Science Question: What can cause the space between molecules to expand (grow) and contract (shrink)?
Often we can’t see molecules moving. In this experiment we will watch molecules expand and contract in marshmallows.
Supplies:
• 6 large marshmallows
• Glass bowl
• Spoon
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) melted butter or coconut oil
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
The experiment:
Observe the size of the marshmallows, and then place them in a bowl and heat in the microwave for 15 to 25 seconds, until the marshmallows have doubled in size. See how the marshmallows expand in the heat?
Now push on the marshmallows with the spoon and watch them deflate with the pressure.
Add the butter or coconut oil to the melted marshmallows and stir it up. Spoon in the powdered sugar, using just enough to create a sticky consistency.
The outcome: You now have edible play dough as a treat!
Why it worked: Heat is energy and will cause the molecules in the marshmallows to move faster, expanding the space between them. As the molecules are compressed by stirring and cooling, the space contracts and gets smaller.
Source: The 101 Coolest Simple Science Experiments by Rachel Miller, Holly Homer & Jamie Harrington.