The Traveling Colors

What is the traveling colors experiment? With this science activity, you will explore the wonderful world of capillary action through water and colors.

Water is an essential part of our lives. We need water to survive, it helps regulate our body temperature and carries nutrients throughout our bodies, and provides nourishment. Water has the ability to flow without the help of external forces.

Water gets pulled into these fibrous gaps by capillary action. This is the same phenomenon that allows trees to suck water out of the ground. This action is partially fueled by surface tension, which is caused by water molecules being attracted to one another. Surface tension is what allows water to form beads instead of spreading out, and for some small insects to walk on water. It also allows water to get sucked into narrow tubes or gaps in materials.

This simple science experiment will help you create your very own rainbow by allowing colors to travel. Have fun, STEM Warriors!

WHAT YOU NEEED

1. 7 Plastic Cups

2. Pitcher or Bottle of Water

3. Red, Blue, or Yellow Food Coloring

4. Scissors

5. Paper Towels

6. Measuring Cup

WHAT YOU DO

WHAT HAPPENED?

The water moves up the paper towels along with the food dye molecules due to capillary action. The fibers that are found in plants are the same as those found in paper towels and are called cellulose. The water molecules stick to the cellulose fibers in the paper towel because of adhesion. These molecules are also attracted to each other and try to stick close together, this process is called cohesion. This cohesive force helps absorb water and the water travels through the gaps in the paper towel and into the empty glass. The attractive forces between the water and fibers in the paper towel help the water move upwards against gravity.

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Learn more about crystals here:

• How Polarity Make Water Behave Strangely

• Capillary Action