Absorption experiment

Science experiments are so much fun for kids and so easy to do in your own home. This simple absorption experiment will intrigue the kids and have them asking why and how?

What you need:

• masking tape
• narrow glass jar
• water
• paper towels
• marker

Number of players:
1+

Activity:

Stick a piece of masking tape lengthwise down the side of your jar.

Fill it with water.

Mark the level of water on the tape with your marker.

Fold one sheet of paper towel in half four times to make a small square.

Dip the entire paper square into the jar of water.

Remove the wet paper towel.

Mark the new water level on the tape.

Refill the jar with water to the original level.

Lay three sheets of paper towels on top of each other.

Fold them in half four times to make a small square.

Dip the paper square into the water.

Remove the wet paper and mark the water level.

The water level will have decreased substantially compared to the single sheet of paper towel.

Why?

Folding the sheets makes them smaller but does not change the way they soak up water.

The thicker the towel, the more it will absorb.