Non Newtonian Fluids – Properties of Matter

Name: _________________________
Date: __________________________
BIOL 1014 Lab 4 Non Newtonian Fluids
Skill: Properties of Matter
Purpose: In this lab you will observe how fluid cornstarch solutions respond to changes in temperature and pressure. You will essentially be creating a non-Newtonian fluid. Note: There are videos posted in Canvas and at the end of this document to help you see what your fluid should look like if it is mixed properly.
Materials:
Small plastic cup/container
Glass or plastic cup/container larger than the small plastic one listed above
Measuring spoon (tablespoon)
Cornstarch
Ice (preferably crushed)
Hot water
Clock/watch
Newspaper or paper towels
Lab Procedure:
1. This lab can be a little messy, so cover your work area with newspaper or paper towels.
2. Measure out 2 level tablespoons of cornstarch into your small plastic cup/container.
3. Measure out 1 tablespoon of water and mix with cornstarch. The solution will probably still be a little runny at this point.
4. Measure out 1 more level tablespoon of cornstarch and mix into solution.
5. Place the solution in your hand. If the solution is correct, you should notice obvious difference between when you squeeze the solution and when you open your hand and let it sit at rest. If it seems too dry, add just a few more DROPS of water…not too much!
Describe what you see and feel.
Observations:
Room Temperature Solution
1. Pour some of the room temperature cornstarch solution into your hand. What happens to the solution when you tilt your hand? The solution is runny and it drips when the hand is tilted.
2. Apply pressure to the solution by squeezing your hand. What happens to the solution as a result? The solution becomes significantly viscous (more solid) with respect to the initial (before squeezing) but upon release of the hand, the solution became liquid (runny) again.
Cooled Solution
1. Crush some ice and place it into you...