How to make the invisible visible using a simple bubble
In short: Gases are notoriously difficult to teach because they lack a fixed shape or size. To prove that air actually takes up space, you can use a simple chemistry trick involving water, soap, and a specific ingredient that prevents evaporation.
The primary challenge in teaching basic physics is demonstrating the properties of gases. Unlike solids, which maintain their shape unless acted upon by force, or liquids, which flow to take the shape of their container, gases are often invisible and appear to occupy no space. To bridge this gap, educators use 'Bubble-ology'—the study of bubbles—to provide a tangible way to observe gas behavior. A basic bubble solution can be created by mixing four cups of water with half a cup of dishwashing soap. While many soaps work, dishwashing soap is specifically recommended over shampoo or body wash for this experiment. To enhance the bubble's longevity, a small amount of glycerin can be added.
Glycerin is a chemical found in pharmacies that acts as a stabilizer; it prevents the water in the bubble's 'skin' from evaporating into a gas too quickly. The structure of a bubble is unique because its skin is extremely elastic, allowing it to stretch significantly. By blowing a bubble with a straw, you are physically capturing a gas and forcing it to take on a shape. This serves as a direct visual proof that gases are matter—they occupy space, have volume, and can be manipulated, even if they cannot be held like a solid apple.
Why this matters for education: For younger students (Key Stage 1), these experiments are often guided by teachers to introduce core concepts. For older students (Key Stage 3), the process is more rigorous, involving the development of original research questions, hypotheses, and formal presentations. Whether it is a simple demonstration of matter or a six-week project leading to a Bronze CREST award, bubbles serve as a fundamental tool for developing scientific research skills.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Do a Science Experiment w/ Bubbles | Science Projects
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