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This experiment uses milk, the first and most important early nourishment for most of us (all of us?) to discern some of the interesting chemical forms that are created when different materials mix. A bit of this, a bit of that, and you can end up with a bit of something else altogether.

Working with hot liquids always requires care. Ask an adult for help!

• 4 ounces of milk
• 1 teaspoon of vinegar
• A small saucepan
• A small jar (clean)

1. First, slowly heat the milk in the pan until it curdles and forms lumps.
2. Next, carefully pour out the liquid so that only the lumps remain.
3. Transfer the lumps to your jar, and add the vinegar. Let the mixture sit for one hour or so.
4. Pour out any remaining liquid, and remove the lump. Create a simple shape like a heart or egg– whatever you like.
5. Allow for the lump to harden some more. Now what? Decorate it! You can paint it with acrylic paints or spread some glue and sprinkle glitter on it, if you want.

What Happened:

When milk is mixed with an acid (like vinegar), it turns into a substance called Casein. Casein has long molecules which bend like rubber until they harden. Imagine what happens to milk in your stomach!

You can also do experiments with milk and other acids, like lemon juice, to see if you get the same effects.