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How to Do the Dancing Raisin Experiment

Young learners always appreciate science lessons that are hands-on, fun and a bit silly. The dancing raisins experiment is a winning classroom activity because it is all three. This demonstration teaches some important concepts of science, including density and buoyancy. The relatively high density of raisins initially makes them sink in a carbonated drink such as soda or sparkling water. Light bubbles of carbon dioxide, however, eventually give them a lift to the surface, showing the effect of buoyant gases.

Things You'll Need

Can of clear carbonated beverage
Glass or beaker
Raisins

Instructions

- 1
  Pour the carbonated beverage into the glass or beaker until it is about half full. Pour it slowly and carefully so it does not foam too much.
- 2
  Observe the beverage. You will see bubbles of carbon dioxide form throughout the liquid and rise to the surface, where they burst.
- 3
  Drop six raisins into the beverage, where they will sink to the bottom. Teachers can allow the students to perform this step to make the experiment a bit more hands-on.
- 4
  Watch the raisins. As bubbles of carbon dioxide cling to them, the raisins will rise to the top of the liquid, then sink again once the bubbles burst. The raisins will all begin a process of rising and falling repeatedly, a little like a dance.

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