Science question: Can you make sand waterproof?
Wet sand is heavy and messy! In this experiment, we will coat the sand with a hydrophobic layer to waterproof the sand.
Supplies needed:
- Fine sand
- Shallow disposable container
- Fabric protector spray
- Large glass bowl of water
- Spoon or other utensils (optional)
- Plastic container with lid
The Experiment
In a well-ventilated area, spread the sand out in the disposable container. Spray the sand with a heavy coat of fabric protector spray. Shake the box a few times to make sure it’s thoroughly coated. Allow the sand to dry.
Pour the dried sand into the bowl of water. Play with the sand in the water, using spoons to dunk it in and out of the water. Store the sand in a lidded sealed container.
The Outcome:
The sand clumps together in the water.
Why it worked:
When you sprayed the sand with the fabric protector, you coated the grains of sand with a hydrophobic layer (or a layer that hates water). This causes the grains of sand to clump to each other in the water.
Did you know?
Hydrophobic sand was discovered near ocean oil spills. People would sprinkle sand on the floating oil, and the sand would mix with the oil and make it heavy enough to sink.
Source: The 101 Coolest Simple Science Experiments by Rachel Miller, Holly Homer & Jamie Harrington.