Off to the Raisin Races

Yes, it’s playing with food. But this entertaining game played with raisins and soda also demonstrates some fascinating scientific principles – and refreshes your young scientists with a cold drink! Do this experiment with a few friends.

Materials:

• Glasses (cups)
• Clear carbonated beverage (like lemon-lime soda or soda water)
• 1 or 2 raisins for each player

 

Gingerly fill the glasses with equal amounts of soda, trying to minimize the fizzing. On the count of three, everyone drops in a raisin. The raisin should sink to the bottom, pause, and then (as them carbon dioxide bubbles gather on the raisin’s surface, increasing the buoyancy) quickly rise to the top. First raisin to the top wins. After several rounds, remove the raisins with a spoon and toast the victor.