While blowing bubbles may be every child’s favorite activity, scientists actually study the science behind bubbles every day. Bubbles provide the opportunity to research science concepts such as elasticity, chemistry, light and even geometry!

If you’ve ever wondered why bubbles pop, you’re not alone. Other than being poked or landing on something sharp, bubbles pop when the water between the soap film surfaces evaporates. So if you’re blowing bubbles in Florida weather, they may pop quicker than if you were blowing them on a crisp winter day.

However, our bubble experts at Orlando Science Center have put together an at-home activity using chemistry to create an un-poppable bubble!

Ingredients:

• A clean glass cup
• 8 oz of distilled water – Minerals and particulate in normal tap water can hamper the making of larger bubbles, but it can still work if you don’t have distilled.
• One tablespoon of dish soap – Any type is fine!
• 0.5 Tablespoon glycerin –  This is what strengthens your bubbles!

Steps:

• Step 1 – Stir all of your ingredients together in the glass cup.
• Step 2 – Wait! Let the bubble solution sit for 24 hours.
  • Why is time so important? It allows the glycerin to fully mix together with the other ingredients. The glycerin is important for keeping the water from evaporating from your bubble and prematurely popping it.
• Step 3 – Once your bubble solution is done sitting, put on some gloves and attempt to bounce your bubbles in the palm of your hand!