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Colorful Fireworks in a Cup experiment with vivid bursts of pink, yellow, and blue dye diffusing in clear water.

Fireworks in a Cup

A simple science-meets-art experiment using oil, water, and food coloring to create a magical burst of swirling colors. A quiet, mesmerizing activity that teaches basic chemistry concepts through play.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 experiment
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup warm water
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4 to 6 drops food coloring use multiple colors for best effect
  • 1 clear glass or jar
  • 1 small bowl or cup for mixing oil and food coloring

Method
 

  1. Pour the warm water into the clear glass or jar. Ensure the water is warm—not hot or cold—for best results.
  2. In a separate small bowl or cup, mix the vegetable oil with the food coloring drops. Stir gently using a fork or spoon. The food coloring will not fully blend into the oil.
  3. Slowly pour the oil and food coloring mixture into the glass of warm water.
  4. Watch as the food coloring drops slowly sink through the oil and burst into colorful patterns in the water below.

Notes

Use a variety of food coloring colors for a more dramatic effect. This experiment works best in a clear container so you can see the full display. Supervise young children and avoid ingestion. This is a fun way to introduce kids to the concept of density and how oil and water don’t mix.