Science for Kids Disappearing Color Science Experiment I have to admit that they first time I tried this experiment it took a little bit of time to perfect and get the outcome I was looking for.  The outcome may surprise your child, so it is definitely worth putting in the effort.

This science experiment is a lot like magic.  Watch the colors disappear right in front of your eyes!

Tools Paper plate Pencil Ruler Markers (purple, blue, green, yellow, orange, red) String or yarn

Procedure 1.  Divide your plate into six even sections using your pencil and ruler. 2.  Use your markers to color each section one of the colors of the rainbow. 3.  Use your pencil to punch two small holes in your plate, each about 1cm from the center.  Cut off the excess plate to leave just your colored circle.  Lace your string or yard through the holes as shown. 4.  Hold one end of the string in each hand so that the color disk is in the middle.  Wind up your your disk by turning while you hold the string.  You may need the assistance of another person.  When the string is wound up tight pull both hands away from each other so that your colored disk spins quickly. What Happens? The color will begin to blur together and will eventually appear to disappear or turn white.

Why Does This Happen? The disk need to be spun quickly in order to create the disappearing effect.  At the fast rate of speed your eyes are not able to differentiate each individual color, you create a blurring effect with each color overlapping.  Therefore, your brain perceives this combination of color as white light. Extension Try this again, but use only two primary colors on your disk.  What do you think will happen?