Physical Science Activity:  Liquid Flax

A simple density activity that shows items can sink or float in materials other than water. (Density is the amount of stuff (matter) in an object. Density = mass/volume (d = m/v)) 

To introduce the activity, have the students watch the following videos.

Liquid Flax can be presented as a standalone class demonstration, or it can be expanded into a class activity, depending on the amount of time available. I usually present this demonstration as a science magic trick. I announce that I will place a metal ball into a bucket of beans/flax and make it disappear. The demonstration is shown in the videos below and described in the following lesson plan. (Liquid Flax Lesson Plan and Demo Card: Demo Card)

Expand the Demonstration

• Try different grains.
• Test other items to see whether they sink or float in your chosen grain.

Agriculture-Related Topic: Grain Bin Hazards 

• OSHA: Dangers of Engulfment and Suffocation in Grain Bins

Related Activities

• Density Investigation: Team Boat
• Density Bowling