This simple cornstarch and water activity is one of the best kitchen chemistry experiments for kids! Learn how to make a non-Newtonian fluid, also known as oobleck, with just 2 ingredients. Oobleck behaves like both a solid and a liquid, making it a hands-on way to explore chemistry, matter, viscosity, and states of matter.
If you want easy science activities you can set up in minutes, this classic Oobleck recipe is always a favorite for home or classroom science.
👉 You may also like our larger Kitchen Chemistry Experiments for Kids hub, filled with simple chemistry activities using everyday supplies.
The Science Behind It
Field: Chemistry and Physical Science—Matter
Grades: K–5
Concepts Explored: viscosity, force, mixtures, matter, solids and liquids, states of matter, non-Newtonian fluids
What Is a Non-Newtonian Fluid?
A non-Newtonian fluid is a substance that does not behave like a typical liquid. Most liquids flow the same way, no matter how much force you apply. Water, for example, always pours smoothly.
A non-Newtonian fluid changes how it behaves depending on the amount of force or pressure applied to it. Oobleck is one of the most famous examples of a non-Newtonian fluid.
When you move slowly through Oobleck, it acts like a liquid. Your fingers sink right in. But when you squeeze it, punch it, or apply sudden force, it behaves more like a solid.
This happens because the cornstarch particles move differently under pressure.
- When gentle force is applied, the particles slide past each other like a liquid.
- When a strong force is applied, the particles push together, making the mixture feel solid.
This type of non-Newtonian fluid is called a shear-thickening fluid because it becomes thicker under shear stress.
You can learn more about solids, liquids, and gases in our States of Matter Activities for Kids resource.
Supplies for This Non-Newtonian Fluid Activity
You only need 2 simple kitchen ingredients to make a homemade non-Newtonian fluid.
- 2 cups cornstarch
- 1 cup water
- Bowl
- Spoon
💡 TIP: The best oobleck consistency is thick but still able to slowly flow back into the bowl.
How to Make a Non-Newtonian Fluid
STEP 1: Add the cornstarch to a large bowl.
STEP 2: Slowly mix in the water. Stir slowly at first. Mixing with your hands often works best.
STEP 3: Adjust the consistency as needed.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more water.
- If it feels too watery, add more cornstarch.
💡 The perfect oobleck should feel solid when squeezed but drip like a liquid when released.
Explore Viscosity with Oobleck
Turn this kitchen chemistry activity into a simple science investigation!
Test how the oobleck reacts to different amounts of force.
Try these questions:
- What happens when you tap the surface lightly?
- What happens when you hit it quickly?
- Can you roll it into a ball?
- What happens when you stop moving it?
- Does it pour faster or slower than water?
Encourage kids to make observations and describe what they see, feel, and notice.
The Science Behind Oobleck
Oobleck is a mixture made from cornstarch and water. The cornstarch does not dissolve completely, creating a suspension.
Instead of behaving like a normal liquid, the particles respond differently to force and movement.
When pressure is added quickly, the particles push tightly together and resist movement. When the pressure stops, the particles spread apart again and flow more easily.
That is why Oobleck can seem solid one moment and liquid the next.
This activity is also a great introduction to:
- viscosity
- mixtures and solutions
- states of matter
- physical properties
- physical changes
You can explore more fun chemistry ideas in our Chemistry Experiments for Kids collection.
Is Oobleck a Solid or a Liquid?
Oobleck is considered a non-Newtonian fluid because it behaves like both a solid and a liquid depending on the applied force.
💡 It does not fit perfectly into just one state of matter.
Free Kitchen Chemistry Starter Guide
Want more easy chemistry activities you can do with simple kitchen ingredients?
Grab the FREE Kitchen Chemistry Starter Guide featuring:
- 5 simple chemistry activities
- reusable observation pages
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- printable investigation sheets
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Perfect for home or classroom science fun.
Non-Newtonian FAQ
What is a non-Newtonian fluid?
A non-Newtonian fluid is a substance that changes how it flows depending on the force applied to it. It can behave like both a liquid and a solid.
Why does Oobleck act like a solid?
When pressure is applied quickly, the cornstarch particles push together and resist movement, making the mixture feel solid.
Is Oobleck a solid or a liquid?
Oobleck behaves like both. It flows like a liquid when moved slowly but feels solid when squeezed or hit quickly.
What science concepts does Oobleck demonstrate?
Oobleck helps explore viscosity, matter, mixtures, force, and states of matter through hands-on investigation.
Is Oobleck a chemical reaction?
No. Oobleck is a physical mixture made from cornstarch and water. No new substance is created.
More Kitchen Chemistry Activities
If your kids loved making oobleck, try these easy chemistry experiments next:
- States of Matter Experiments
- Magic Milk Experiment
- Growing Crystals
- Density Tower
- Homemade Slime
- Floating Egg Experiment
Find even more easy science ideas in our Kitchen Chemistry Activities for Kids hub.
Explore More Kitchen Chemistry
Continue the fun with our Kitchen Chemistry Pack featuring printable experiments, reusable investigation pages, science explanations, and easy hands-on activities using everyday kitchen supplies.
Perfect for home or classroom science with activities focused on:
reactions, mixtures, crystals, surface tension, polymers, and color-changing chemistry.
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