Immiscible Liquids: Oil and Water Layers

Theory

The less dense liquid (oil, 920 kg/m³) stays on top of water (1000 kg/m³). A body with density between the two — like plastic (950) — sinks in oil but floats on water: it stops at the interface.

What to observe

• Wood floats on the oil; plastic stops between the layers; rubber sinks.

Try this

• Change the second liquid to alcohol or honey.

Also available in: Líquidos imiscíveis: camadas de óleo e água (Português) · Líquidos inmiscibles: capas de aceite y agua (Español)