Construct Your Own Lava Lamp
For many decades, Americans have had a virtual love affair with the lava lamp. This is in all probability due to the continually moving blobs of mystical liquid that both mesmerized and entertains those who become mesmerized by it. The lasting attraction of the lava lamp has contributed to its mass charm, making it an iconic home decor option. Because of its bright and fascinating design, the lava lamp is generally taken to be an exciting decor item for teen's and kid's bedrooms, or for the game room or family room.
This immense popularity often causes us to forget the science that powers the moving blobs within the lamp. As a matter of fact, finding out exactly what makes the lava lamp work can be an exciting science project for kids. The interior workings of a lava lamp can best be depicted by the technological principle that water and oil do not mix. The blobs of color that are visible in the lava lamp are actually a mixture of colored wax that has been melted or liquefied and an agent that permits the wax to take a versatile form on while it is suspended in liquid. A lava lamp can be constructed at home using elementary ingredients. Here's how.
Gathering the materials. Other than two items (non-toxic automotive anti-freeze and perc), the ingredients you will need are discovered in most homes. A large glass container with tightly fitting cover, distilled water and coloring will also be needed for the lamp. You will also require dissolved candle wax, tetrachloroethylene or perc (found in degreasers and dry cleaners), salt, non-toxic automotive antifreeze and distilled water to make the blob.
Prepare the water and the lamp. You must place the container or jar in the deep freezer for several hours prior to beginning the project; it must be chilled. Next, add the distilled water to the cold container to a point that is around two to three inches from the container's brim. Then add the coloring. A heaping teaspoonful of salt is then added; set the lid back on the container and shake it vigorously to dissolve the salt. At this point, you may opt to add some small bright beads. The container can now be placed to the side. You can then proceed to making the characteristic "blob" that makes a lava lamp so attractive.
Create the oozing “blob”. To start, mix 11 tablespoons of melted wax and six tablespoonfuls of perc in a separate container. Keep in mind that the perc will begin to expand and will increase the force inside the container, so cautiously screw its lid back on. Swirl the container to mix the two elements. Permit the "blob" to cool before adding drops of it to the container of water. A tinting agent can be contributed to the wax to make a blob that contrasts with the water. Tighten the lid and shift it a few times to test for leaks.
Allow your trendy new lava lamp to enliven the decor for the entire room by bringing in large wall art with an op art feel or contemporary wall art with the same colors exhibited in the lamp.
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