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You’ll be “creeping it real” with this spooky flying Halloween science experiment for kids! Children will learn what is the Marangoni effect and in a ‘thrilling’ way!

The Marangoni effect is a scientific theory that illustrates how two liquids with different surface tensions interact with each other. This experiment will offer visual examples of surface tension, gradients, and forces for kids.

I collaborated with Meg Anger Illustration to offer some absolutely adorable Halloween images for this experiment!

Supplies:

• Download Halloween images from Meg Anger Illustration here
• Waterproof paper (be sure to select the right kind for your printer – we have a laser printer and used these)
• Waterproof ink (we used this brand)
• Scissors to cut out the images
• A bin or 9×13 pan
• Water pitcher
• Clean water
• Optional: Rubber gloves & goggles

Instructions:

1. Download the FREE fun Halloween characters from Meg Anger illustration here.
2. Print the images on water proof paper. Be sure to select the paper that works for your printer. We had a laser printer and used this brand here.
3. Cut out the images you want to use.
4. Put waterproof ink on one end of the characters. We used a toothpick to dip in the ink and then apply to the characters.
   • You’ll want to use rubber gloves and goggles to protect your children’s hands and fingers from the ink.
5. Place the images in clean water and watch them fly across the water!
   • To do this experiment again and again, you must start with clean water each time.

Watch the Video of the Experiment:

What is happening?

The ink has a lower surface tension than the water. This causes a gradient in surface tension which results in a net force that pushes the paper ahead. This is known as the Marangoni effect.

Ideas to add more fun to this experiment:

Make a backdrop:

If you use a glass bin or pan, let your kids create a fun spooky backdrop like mine did!

Experiment applying the ink in different spots:

Try putting the ink in different locations on the illustrated characters and see what happens each time!

Experiment with different paper and / ink:

• Try using different paper – Do the images sink? Do they move faster or slower in the water? What happens?
• Experiment with different ink. Do all types of ink work?

Will you try this fun Halloween Science experiment at home? Let me know how it works out in the comments!

Are you looking for more Halloween experiments and activities for your kids? Check out all of my Halloween experiments and activities here.

Trouble finding the free images above? You can also download them below.

-Kristen