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Magic Sand Test Tube

Science Experiment

It’s a hydrophobic polymer! Yes, sand that never gets wet!
Build underwater sand castles
Explore the differences between Magic Sand with regular sand

In stock

SKU: MSANDCRD

Frequently Purchased Together

Sand Science Experiment for Kids

Magic Sand May Look Like Ordinary Sand…

but just try to get it wet!

Magic Sand begins as normal looking sand, until it’s dyed and coated with a substance that repels water. This coating keeps the sand dry even after it has been dumped into a container of water. Build castles and other structures under the water, then simply pour the water off when you’re finished and the sand is still dry! You can use it for fun science experiments again and again! Colors vary.

How does it work?

Ordinary sand is free flowing and cannot form a structure that holds its shape. Because of its water-repellent properties, when Magic Sand is poured into water, it holds its shape and can even be molded into structures under water.

What does it teach?

Learn about the properties of water molecules and how hydrophobic products work with this science experiment to note the differences in water-repellent properties.

Learn About Water-Repellant Polymers

Children have often already seen water-repellant products in their homes, like spray-on shoe and boot protectors, but they probably do not realize that these products are made with hydrophobic polymers. Hydrophobic polymers lack the polar molecules needed to attract water, which means that they are not made up of molecules that have areas of positive and negative charge. So, instead, they repel water. When children work with the Magic Sand Test Tube from Steve Spangler Science, they can observe a hydrophobic polymer’s behavior up close as they watch polymer-coated sand that refuses to get wet. Seeing the coated sand underwater as it retains its shape is a great way to spark the curiosity of young scientists and encourage them to continue studying polymers as they progress in school. The possibilities are endless.

The Possibilities are Endless!

Steve Spangler’s Magic Sand is a hydrophobic polymer; sand that never gets wet! It can be used to build underwater sandcastles! Also, Magic Sand is a reusable science toy! When finished, simply pour the water off and let the sand dry! You can use it for science experiments again and again!

Learn About Water Molecule Properties

Discover the differences between Steve Spangler’s Magic Sand and ordinary sand for a fun science experiment or lesson!

Instruction Card Included with 3 Experiments

What Makes Magic Sand Magic?
Waterproof Finger
Underwater Sandcastles

What’s Included?

Blue Magic Sand – .52 oz (15 g)
Red Magic Sand – .52 oz (15 g)
Yellow Magic Sand – .52 oz (15 g)
Instruction Cards

Recommended for ages 6+.
Adult Supervision Required. Do Not Ingest.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does it work?

It starts out as normal sand but is then dyed and covered with a water-repelling polymer that keeps it dry.

What colors does it come in?

The sand comes in red, yellow and blue.

Does it stain?

No.

How long does it last?

The protective coating usually stays on for a long time but the more you play with it, the faster it wears down. Also, soap will make the coating wear away faster.

Safety Information