Physics for Kids: Make a Glitter Tornado in a Jar

Get your kids interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) with this easy science project that explores physics. Tornado in a Jar project shows kids how physics applies to everyday life using just a jar or bottle, water, dishwashing liquid, and glitter. Kids create a water vortex that looks like a mini tornado.

Cool Science Experiments for Kids – Get your kids interested in STEM → science, technology, engineering, and math with these easy science projects using physics and chemistry. Create a glitter tornado, shine pennies then turn them green, and catch ice on a string using supplies you have around the house. Smart is the New Cool! #free printable #STEM #lesson plan

Science Lab Supplies

Free printable lab notebook with full instructions (download in the free printable library)

Glitter Tornado in a Jar - Cool Science Experiments for Kids – Get your kids interested in STEM → science, technology, engineering, and math with these easy science projects using physics and chemistry. Create a glitter tornado, shine pennies then turn them green, and catch ice on a string using supplies you have around the house. Smart is the New Cool! #free printable #STEM #lesson plan

The lab book contains three easy science experiments for kids and contains areas to record your notes and observations. You can print it on card stock or plain paper and assemble it with ring clips or staples. It would be perfect for a science party.

Tornado in a Jar Science Experiment

Make a glittery tornado in a bottle with this fun physics experiment!

Experiment Supplies

Water
A clear jar or bottle with a lid that doesn’t leak
Glitter
Dishwashing liquid (for the sink, not the dishwasher)
Food coloring (optional)

Tornado in a Jar Instructions

Fill the jar about three-quarters full with water.
Add a drop or two of dishwashing liquid.
Add a few pinches of glitter.
Put the lid on tightly.
Quickly swirl the bottle in a circular motion for a few seconds, then set it down. You should see a mini tornado in the water (this might take a few tries).

Tip – Add a drop or two of food coloring to the water if you are having trouble seeing the tornado.

Experiment Follow-Up

Complete the lab notes section of the lab notebook (download in the free printable library) with your kids. Have them record their predictions and observations. Try the experiment without dish soap and record the changes. Try adding a drop of food coloring and make a prediction about the appearance of the tornado.

Experiment Explanation

You have created a water vortex that looks like a mini tornado by swirling the jar in a circular motion. Centripetal force makes the water move in a spiral pattern.

Physics in Daily Life

Vortexes can be found in many places in our everyday lives. A water vortex forms each time you flush the toilet or drain your bathtub. We can also see vortexes in the weather; these include tornadoes, hurricanes, and waterspouts (a tornado that forms over water).