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Ocean in a Bottle Experiment

A fun craft for kids and Science project all rolled into one. Here are the ingredients you will need for creating an Ocean Wave or Ocean in a Bottle. Consider having children add items from the sea, such as shells and sand to give it a more realistic look. It’s fun to watch the items swirl and turn in the wave.

Combine ingredients to create an ocean in a bottle craft - also called an Ocean Wave.

In addition to an activity that creates an interesting wave, the Scientific part pertains to why water and oil don’t mix. I’ve included materials and instructions of two versions for this activity. Option #1 is my original post which includes rubbing alcohol and mineral oil. The second option replaces rubbing alcohol with water and mineral oil with baby oil.

Use this activity as a scouting project, classroom Science experiment or even to go along with a Bible Story theme.

Option #1

Materials and Instructions:

  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Mineral oil
  • Blue food coloring
  • Water bottle or any 1 – 2 liter bottle
  • Hot glue
  • Funnel
  • Additional items: 1 t. glitter, small sea creatures (star fish, shells)

Start by filling the bottle half full with the rubbing alcohol. Next, add a few drops of the blue food coloring and shake until well blended. The remainder of the bottle is filled (except for about 1 inch) with the mineral oil. Add any additional items and close the bottle with the lid. Secure the lid in place with the hot glue gun (adults only). Do not shake the bottle, but rather hold horizontally until clear, then raise and lower the top and bottom to create waves.

Option #2

Instead of rubbing alcohol, use water. And replace mineral oil with baby oil. Regular cooking oil can also be used in place of the mineral oil but the yellow color of the oil is not as effective. The instructions for the ocean in a bottle are the same as above.

About Theresa Johnston

Activities For Kids has been an on-going passion of mine since 1998. I'm a long-time Orlando resident and huge Disney Fan! Prior guide for About.com and current editor for AboutOrlando.com. I hope you enjoy the crafts, recipes and ideas that you find here.