Viscosity Race

Objective:
To investigate the concept of viscosity by comparing the flow rates of different fluids and relate it to
volcanic eruptions.
Materials Needed:
 four pieces of cone out of a cardboard
 clear drinking glass
 drinking straw
 tray
 timer
 water
 Ketchup
 cooking oil
Procedure:
1. Before doing the activity, predict which liquid (water, Ketchup, and cooking oil) takes the least amount of
time to reach the tray.
2. Place the cone marked A, B, C, and D on the tray.
3. Pour water on the top of cone A. Record the time it takes for the water to reach the tray.
4. Do it three times for each material.
NOTE: Use the same amount of material each time.
5. Put 100 mL syrup in a clear glass.
6. Using a drinking straw, blow some air from the bottom of the liquid. Observe.
7. Repeat procedure 6 by blowing harder on the liquid. Observe.
Table 2. Travel time of some liquids.
Travel time (seconds)
Liquid
1st 2nd 3rd Average
Water

Oil

Ketchup

Guide Question
1. Which liquid will take the most amount of time travel? Is your prediction correct?

2. Which liquid is most viscous? How do you know?

3. Which liquid is least viscous?

4. Explain viscosity in your own words.

5. Compare how these liquids flow with how you think lava flows. Why do some types of lava travel
faster than others?

6. Compare the movement of the liquid as the bubbles move on surface.