The Rainbow Walking Water Experiment is as fun as children of all ages (and adults) love. The experiment looks magical when carried out correctly, but it’s surprisingly simple and takes only a few steps. Below are the details needed to bring the magic of this scientific experiment to the classroom.
Additionally, click on the button below to receive a free rainbow walking water experimental worksheet.
How does the rainbow walking water experiment work?
The “crawl rainbow” experiment is a perfect example of capillary action. The colored water is moved to the next cup by lifting the paper towel through the process of capillary action. This is the ability of liquids to oppose gravity or to flow upwards in small spaces. This is similar to how water climbs up from the roots to the leaves of a plant. Elementary school students practice and write steps in the scientific process, so don’t worry if it’s difficult to remember vocabulary words.
Are there any experimental videos of walking water?
This video shows visual step-by-step instructions and the materials you need to perform this fun and simple experiment.
Required materials:
6 Transparent Plastic Cup Paper Towel Red, Yellow, Blue Food Coloring Water
Walking Water Experiment Steps:
Teachers and students set up science experiments using six cups. Fill the first cup with water and color it with red food coloring. Leave the second cup empty. Add water to the third cup and color it with yellow food coloring. Leave the fourth cup empty. Add water to the fifth cup and color it with blue food coloring. Leave the last cup empty. The cups can be placed in a straight line or circle. (If you want a straight line, consider using a seventh cup filled with red colored water. See the photo.) This experiment involves filling the cup by approaching the top and filling it with a paper towel It works well if you drape near the cup rather than standing. The paper towels are too expensive.
3. Once students have completed their predictions, add a paper towel that extends from one cup to the next.
