Force
Properties of Matter
Magic Toothpicks
Enrichment Activity for 5-11 11-14
- Level Elementary
What you need
- Five wooden toothpicks
- A small sponge
- A plate
- A little water
Instructions
- Snap the toothpicks in half but don't break them fully
- Arrange the toothpicks on the plate so they are spaced out with their broken ends forming a small circle
- Carefully squeeze a drop of water into the middle. Make sure it touches the end of each toothpick
Results and Explanation
The toothpicks move. Just like synchronised swimmers! The water makes the wood expand, the broken ends press against each other and the toothpick opens out. The same thing happens to doors when it's humid - they swell and get jammed.
