Watch a scientist-led video for this lesson
In addition to the instruction sheet, we also have a scientist-led video for your kit.
Candy Chromatography
What colors make up candy?
Let’s say you are opening a candy shop and want to make candies that come in different colors.
What colors of dye do you need to order?
Today we are going to be using a scientific process called chromatography.
Chromatography is a process used by scientists and engineers who work in environmental and chemical safety, food and beverage production, drug testing, forensics, and more!
This science kit you received will allow you to do some of your own chromatography at home.
Ready to do some candy chromatography?
Remove all of the contents from your kit and lay them out on your workspace. Your kit should include all of the items shown below.
Follow the instructions on the insert included with your kit to get started, or if you would prefer to follow along with one of our scientist educators, scroll down to watch a video instead.
About Science from Scientists
Science from Scientists (SciSci) is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization specializing in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) experiential learning for 3rd- through 8th-graders, with the goal of measurably improving the attitudes and aptitudes of students in STEM.
We send real, charismatic scientist educators into classrooms during school every other week for half- (8 visits) or full-year programs (16 visits) to guide students through hands-on STEM lessons chosen by teachers to enhance their curricula. Because our program occurs during the school day, we reach every student, not just those already interested in STEM or who are able to access out-of-school programming.
Teachers receive professional development through the modeling of instructional practices for hands-on/minds-on learning by our scientist educators.
We work with and within the existing education system and provide as many students as possible with access to STEM role models at the ages—elementary and middle school—when students typically are deeply engaged in defining who they are and beginning to imagine their future selves.
By inspiring students, building their confidence, igniting their interests, and developing their knowledge and skills, we can change life trajectories, improve lives, and fill the workforce pipeline with talented, competent individuals.
