International Day of Women and Girls in Science
On February 11th it is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, a day I never knew existed but once I did I was determined to create a make and bake for it. Enter the Fizzy Science Art! It is inspired by my love of all bicarb and vinegar experiments, art, and bubbles. If you’ve ever painted using bubbles you’ll understand exactly what I’m talking about. Before I move onto the experiment itself let’s explore a bit of history about this remarkably unheard of day and why I chose to mark it.
History of Women and Girls in Science
Just like many areas of employment and history, women have been rather overlooked in the world of science. A man’s world of intellect there was little place for a woman. However women have been there throughout history. Our wise women, many often confused for witches, who knew how to mix chemicals and herbs for medicines and perfumes were all scientists. Those who peered through telescopes and looked to the skies to examine the stars, all scientists. Those who climbed and broke rocks making important paleontological discoveries only for a man to take the credit, all scientists.
In 1903 Pierre Currie insisted that his Nobel Prize for Physics must be shared with his wife Marie. This created a slow momentum, the world gradually began to recognise women within this field and provide opportunities for them. This has been hard fought, and over a hundred years later the field is still not level.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science, established in 2015, aims to create awareness for this inequality and promote the vital role women play within science. It is a chance to celebrate those who rarely see the spotlight, and stand together to inspire both young and old to step forward into this important field.
Fizzy Science Art
When I heard about this day I knew there had to be a way of combining art and science together. My natural curiosity was awakened and I began my quest to discover the perfect art meets science activity, and I think I’ve found it. Fizzy Science Art combines a traditional bicarb and vinegar reaction with bubble art, taking advantage of it’s fizzing effects to produce stunning colourful watercolour-esque art. I’ve been typing enough, let’s just get into it.
How to make your own Fizzy Science Art
You will need:
- Food colouring
- Bicarbonate of Soda
- Vinegar (white is best but any will work)
- Small tray (I used the lid of a plastic pot)
- Paper
Method
Step One
On your tray place 1/2 tsp of bicarb and a couple of drops of your food colouring.
Step Two
Pour 1 tsp of vinegar on top of the mixture.
Step Three
Adding the vinegar will make the mixture bubble. Timing is crucial for this step, The bubbles will cause the colour to mix, when you’re happy with the amount it has mixed, and whilst it’s still bubbling, place your piece of paper on top and press lightly.
Step Four
Peel your piece of paper off carefully. You should have a lovely watercolour effect, which will improve whilst it dries. Lay the piece of paper down flat and let it dry. Could take a couple of hours.
Fizzy Science Art Activity Sheet
Download this activity sheet for FREE for an easy to access how to guide. You can also find out the science behind this experiment, empowering you with knowledge that will make you appear very clever and knowledgable to all your friends and family.
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