Did you know every time you make slime you are observing a chemical reaction? Slime is formed when a chemical reaction occurs between polyvinyl acetate, or PVA, and borate ions. Read more and experiment with pumpkin slime!

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Materials:

- Small Pumpkin

- 1/4C Measuring Cup

- 1/2C Measuring Cup

- Liquid Starch

- Clear School Glue

- Water

- Spoon

- Knife

- Bowl

You may need an adult's help with this activity.

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Procedure:

1. Cut the top off of the pumpkin. Make sure the hole is big enough to fit your hands in.

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2. Loosen the insides of the pumpkin, with a spoon or your hands, and take some out to make room.

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3. Add 1/2C of water and 1/2C of clear glue to the bowl. Mix until they are fully combined.

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4. Add 1/4C of liquid starch into the pumpkin. Then pour you water and glue mixture into the pumpkin.

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5. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the liquids together with the pumpkin insides. The more you mix it, the less sticky it will be.

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6. (Extra) For an added effect, carve your pumpkin and have the slime be a part of the decoration!

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‍What's Happening?

Slime is formed from a chemical reaction between polyvinyl acetate, or PVA, which is the main ingredient found in washable school glue and borate ions, which are present in the liquid starch solution.

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In this reaction, the borate ions link together the long strands of molecules in the PVA creating a Non-Newtonian fluid. What happens to your slime as you mix it quickly or hold it loosely in your hands?