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Candy Color Spirals: A Lesson in Diffusion

Key definitions:

Diffusion: the tendency of particles to move from high concentration to low concentration.

Concentration: the amount of particles in a given space

Particle: a small piece of matter, similar to a molecule or atom

Equilibrium: a balanced or equal amount of particles on opposing sides

Supplies:

  • You can use M&Ms, Skittles, or another colored candy for this activity. Here is a link to the candy used in the video: Skittles 7.2oz Resealable Bag

  • A small round dish or plate, can be reusable or paper.

  • About ⅓ cup of water (depending on the size of the plate). A dixie cup can also be used to measure about half way. 

Related STEM Careers:

Check out our blog post about Microbiologists, and how they study the world of itty-bitty particles!

Related STEM History:

Read our overview of the Atomic Model, and how scientists in the past learned about the basic unit of matter.