Create your own stretchy, gooey slime with this classic science experiment recipe. By combining guar gum, a natural thickener, with a borax water solution, you create a polymer that feels slippery and elastic. This activity is perfect for kids’ parties, classroom demonstrations, or rainy day fun. The process teaches basic chemistry concepts like cross-linking in a tangible way. Just remember to wash hands after playing and dispose of the slime in the trash, not the drain. It 226;ÂÂs a simple, engaging project that delivers instant tactile satisfaction and endless play possibilities for curious minds.
Do-It-Yourself “Slime” By Steven Spangler
Description
Create your own stretchy, gooey slime with this classic science experiment recipe. By combining guar gum, a natural thickener, with a borax water solution, you create a polymer that feels slippery and elastic. This activity is perfect for kids' parties, classroom demonstrations, or rainy day fun. The process teaches basic chemistry concepts like cross-linking in a tangible way. Just remember to wash hands after playing and dispose of the slime in the trash, not the drain. It&# 226;ÂÂs a simple, engaging project that delivers instant tactile satisfaction and endless play possibilities for curious minds.Ingredients
Directions
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Prepare the Borax solution by adding 1 tablespoon of Borax powder to 1 cup of warm water in a small container.
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Stir the Borax and water mixture until the powder is mostly dissolved.
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Label this container "Borax Water" and set it aside for later use.
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Pour 4 cups (approximately 1 liter) of warm water into a large mixing bowl.
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Add 10 drops of food coloring to the water if desired, stirring to distribute the color.
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Very slowly sprinkle 2 teaspoons of Guar Gum into the colored water while stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
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Continue stirring until the Guar Gum is fully dissolved and the mixture becomes thick and glossy.
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Pour the Guar Gum mixture into a plastic bottle or jar, label it, and let it sit for a few minutes to stabilize.
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Pour 1/2 cup of the Guar Gum mixture into a clean, empty zipper-lock plastic bag.
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Add 1 teaspoon of the prepared Borax Water solution into the bag with the Guar Gum mixture.
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Seal the bag tightly, ensuring no air escapes.
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Shake the bag vigorously for 10-15 seconds to mix the solutions.
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Open the bag and touch the mixture; it should have transformed into a stretchy, gooey slime.
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Play with the slime, noting its elastic and slippery texture.
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When finished, seal the slime back in the bag or dispose of it in the trash. Do not pour down the drain.
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Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling the slime.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 8.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.0g0%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 0.2mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 2.1g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 2.0g
- Protein 0.0g0%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.