🧪 Density Tower Experiment
Layer liquids · Float or sink · Density science · Grades 2–5
📐 What is Density?
DefinitionDensity = how much stuff (mass) is packed into a space (volume). Dense things feel heavy for their size
ExampleA bowling ball and a beach ball are the same size, but the bowling ball is way denser — more matter packed in
Liquids tooLiquids have different densities too — that's why oil floats on water!
🥞 Build a Density Tower
Layer 1 (bottom)Honey — density ~1.42 g/mL — the densest liquid, sinks to the bottom
Layer 2Corn syrup — density ~1.33 g/mL — slightly less dense than honey
Layer 3Milk — density ~1.03 g/mL — just barely denser than water
Layer 4Water — density 1.00 g/mL — the baseline we compare everything to
Layer 5Vegetable oil — density ~0.92 g/mL — less dense than water, floats on top
Layer 6 (top)Rubbing alcohol — density ~0.79 g/mL — the least dense, floats on everything
🔬 The Science
Why layers?Denser liquids sink below less dense ones — gravity pulls heavier liquids down more
Won't mixSome liquids don't mix (immiscible) because their molecules repel each other — like oil and water
Try itDrop small objects in: a grape sinks to the bottom, a cherry tomato floats on corn syrup, a ping pong ball sits on top!
🎯 Quiz Time!
⭐ 0Q 1/4
The Density Tower Experiment
The density tower is one of the most visually striking science experiments for kids. By layering liquids of different densities in a clear container, students can see density in action — a concept that's fundamental to chemistry, physics, and earth science.
This interactive tool explains the science behind density towers, walks through the layering process, and tests understanding with a quiz. Great for hands-on science in grades 2–5.
Last reviewed: April 2026
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