Xtreme Degrees

Xtreme Fluid

Xtreme Fluid Video (QT, 15.1 MB)

This extreme fluid acts more like a solid than a liquid when a strong force is applied to it. It’s an example of a non-Newtonian fluid, which means its viscosity (resistance to flow) changes under stress.

Some non-Newtonian fluids become less viscous when a force is applied (e.g., pressure or stirring). Non-drip paint, for instance, flows more easily with the force from a brush but becomes more viscous on the wall when the force is removed. Ketchup behaves the same way (shake the bottle first to make it flow more easily), as do multi-grade engine oils.

Other non-Newtonian fluids, such as Oobleck (another name for our Extreme Fluid), become more viscous when a force is applied. When a force such as running is applied to Oobleck, it becomes extremely viscous, acting more like a solid. Less extreme examples include quicksand and wet concrete, which become more viscous if one struggles against it. So if you find yourself in quicksand, move slowly to get out!

Some applications of non-Newtonian fluids that become more viscous when a force is applied include Silly Putty, some types of limited slip differentials, and body armor for extreme sports (the military is working on a bullet-proof variety!).

Try it: To make your own Oobleck, mix 2 cups cornstarch with 1 cup water and stir slowly. (Throw it away in the trash, not down the drain!)

Xtreme Fountain

Xtreme Fountain Video (QT, 11.2 MB)

Soda pop is fizzy because it contains carbon dioxide. In an open container, bubbles of carbon dioxide slowly form on imperfections in the surface of the container and make their way to the top of the soda pop where they can escape. The imperfections act as nucleation sights where the carbon dioxide can “latch on” to form bubbles.

The mint Life Savers® in our fountain are full of millions of microscopic pits that can all act as nucleation sights for the carbon dioxide simultaneously. The pressure resulting from all the bubbles created inside the bottle forces the liquid up and out into a geyser of soda.

This experiment is best done outside!

Xtreme Life

Xtreme Life Video (QT, 11.5 MB)



	HOME \| PARTNERS \| CONTACT US \| MEMBERSHIP \| CALENDAR \| RESOURCES \| GRANTS \| COMMUNITIES \| CAREERS

What is STEM? Xtreme Degrees Events 2007 Get Involved Join Volunteer For Students Explore STEM Education Careers Explore Other STEM Careers Explore STEM Majors at BGSU For Teachers STEM Tours and Programs Lesson Plans Teaching:A Second Career Math Teacher Science Teacher Women in Science Future Teacher Conference	Xtreme Fluid Xtreme Fluid Video (QT, 15.1 MB) This extreme fluid acts more like a solid than a liquid when a strong force is applied to it. It’s an example of a non-Newtonian fluid, which means its viscosity (resistance to flow) changes under stress. Some non-Newtonian fluids become less viscous when a force is applied (e.g., pressure or stirring). Non-drip paint, for instance, flows more easily with the force from a brush but becomes more viscous on the wall when the force is removed. Ketchup behaves the same way (shake the bottle first to make it flow more easily), as do multi-grade engine oils. Other non-Newtonian fluids, such as Oobleck (another name for our Extreme Fluid), become more viscous when a force is applied. When a force such as running is applied to Oobleck, it becomes extremely viscous, acting more like a solid. Less extreme examples include quicksand and wet concrete, which become more viscous if one struggles against it. So if you find yourself in quicksand, move slowly to get out! Some applications of non-Newtonian fluids that become more viscous when a force is applied include Silly Putty, some types of limited slip differentials, and body armor for extreme sports (the military is working on a bullet-proof variety!). Try it: To make your own Oobleck, mix 2 cups cornstarch with 1 cup water and stir slowly. (Throw it away in the trash, not down the drain!) Xtreme Fountain Xtreme Fountain Video (QT, 11.2 MB) Soda pop is fizzy because it contains carbon dioxide. In an open container, bubbles of carbon dioxide slowly form on imperfections in the surface of the container and make their way to the top of the soda pop where they can escape. The imperfections act as nucleation sights where the carbon dioxide can “latch on” to form bubbles. The mint Life Savers® in our fountain are full of millions of microscopic pits that can all act as nucleation sights for the carbon dioxide simultaneously. The pressure resulting from all the bubbles created inside the bottle forces the liquid up and out into a geyser of soda. This experiment is best done outside! Xtreme Life Xtreme Life Video (QT, 11.5 MB)