SCIENCE
PART...
THE
Using the first paper clip as
a handle, slowly lower the
second one onto the water.
Keeping the second paper clip
horizontal, push the first one
down into the water and away
from the now floating paper clip.
4
WALKING ON WATER
Some insects use surface
tension to walk on water.
Pond skaters have special
pads on their feet covered
in waxy, waterproof hairs.
Their feet dent the surface,
but the surface tension
keeps them afloat.
Try to keep your hand
as steady as possible.
The paper clip floats
because of something
called surface tension.
Water is made of tiny particles that
stick to each other. Because those at
the surface have nothing above them,
their sticking power is stronger on the
surface. This forms a tight, elastic
skin that is strong enough to support
a—carefully positioned—paper clip.
IT^ REALLY (^) FL
OA
TS
!
IT^ FLOA
TS
!
89
Water particles
stick together more
strongly on the surface.
US_088-089_Floating_Paper_Clip.indd 89 12/09/2018 15:50