Did you know that it’s possible to make magnetic slime? Magnetic slime contains iron in it and is attracted to a strong magnet. It is extremely flexible and so much fun. When you carry a magnet near the slime, it flows toward it, and the slime will “swallow” up a magnet if you let it go! Use this amazing activity to kick-start a discussion about magnetism at your home. Conduct a brainstorming session with your kids and ask them to come up with various ways magnets and magnetic inventions could upgrade everyday life. Looking for a fun sensory activity? Make stretchy, sticky slime that’s magnetic!
About Magnetic Slime Activity
Magnetic slime is slime created with water, craft glue, liquid starch, and black iron oxide powder. To play with magnetic slime, you’ll require a neodymium magnet, as regular magnets are not strong enough. This amazing STEM Activity just requires a few supplies that you probably already have at your home. Homemade “slime” activities are a staple for many parents and teachers looking for an exciting activity. Getting the slime density correct can be a little complicated, but most issues can be fixed with either adding more glue or more liquid starch. After the activity, kids will surely come up with a lot of questions about how magnets work, so don’t forget to brush up on the subject yourself before getting started!
Materials Required For Magnetic Slime Activity
Magnetic slime is at the top of the list on the most fun STEM activities right now, but did you know you can make magnetic slime? You can! And here’s what you’ll require:
- PVA Glue (Elmer’s glue works best)
- Liquid starch (Borax Solution could also be used)
- Iron Filings or Iron Oxide powder
- Mixing Bowl and Spoon
- Magnets
- Disposable gloves
Steps Involved In The Magnetic Slime Activity
Step 1: Firstly, mix ¼ of a cup of liquid starch and 2 tablespoons of iron oxide powder together in the bowl.
Step 2: Now, add ¼ of a cup of Elmer’s glue into the mix. It’s going to look really messy at first, just keep stirring!
Step 3: After this, put the gloves on so that your hands don’t get dirty and start mixing the slime with your hands. There will be some liquid leftover that’s not slime and that’s natural. Just keep squishing the slime together until it’s well mixed, then wash off any residue left on your hands right away.
Step 4: Now, dry the slime off with a paper towel. The slime itself won’t make your hands black, but the liquid leftover will. Make sure you clean all of that up before playing with it!
What Are We Learning?
Some elements change states from solids to liquids to gases when the temperature changes. When you heat water, it transforms into a gas. When you freeze water, it transforms into a solid. You probably already knew that, but did you know that other materials change states when they are under pressure? Magnetic slime is special because it is non-Newtonian. That means that when you apply quick pressure to the slime, it improves its viscosity or thickness. When you hit the slime, it appears hard because it forces the molecules to bind together. When you gradually lower your hand into the slime, it will sink right in. Gently employing pressure gives the slime particles time to move out of the way.
Other than that, have fun! You can do a lot of excellent stuff with this magnetic slime, pull it around with magnets, turn the slime into monstrous bubbles or simply squish it with your hands!
