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Liquid stacking is a fun and creative way to demonstrate the viscosity of liquids to others, or just to create something beautiful for displaying as a showpiece in your home. It's an exciting activity to perform and watch, so gather everyone around and give it a go!



  1. 1
    Select an empty bottle. The best bottle or container is one that is tall (long) and not too wide. This will show the layering to its best effect and will lessen the amount of liquid needed for each layer.
  2. 2
    Pour equal amounts of each liquid. Measure the liquids using a measuring beaker, with the idea being that you use the same ratio for each liquid layer. It is best if you have a minimum of 1 inch (2.5cm) for each layer, to make the layer differences obvious; even wider layers are preferable. The following steps explain which liquid to add in sequence, according to their density.
  3. 3
    Pour corn syrup first. As this is the densest liquid, it needs to sit at the base of the layers.
  4. 4
    Pour dish washing liquid next.
  5. 5
    Tilt the bottle while you add colored water.
  6. 6
    Tilt the bottle while you add oil.
  7. 7
    Tilt the bottle while adding colored alcohol (or rubbing alcohol).
  8. 8
    Close the cap.
  9. 9
    Your liquid stacked bottle is ready!
  10. 10
    You can even turn it upside down!
  11. 11

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Things You'll Need

  • Empty and transparent water bottle, tall/long
  • Measuring beaker
  • Dark corn syrup
  • Dish washing liquid
  • Water
  • Oil
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Food coloring

Article Info

Featured Article

Categories: Featured Articles | Layered Drinks

In other languages:

Español: hacer apilamiento de líquidos, Português: Fazer uma Torre de Líquidos, Deutsch: Flüssigkeiten schichten


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