Science Fun

Secret Message Chemical Reaction Science Experiment

In this fun and easy science experiment for kids, we’re going to write secret messages and reveal them with a chemical reaction. 

 

Materials:

  • Water
  • 2 Saucers
  • Measuring spoons
  • Lemon juice
  • Iodine
  • Sheet of printer paper
  • Cotton swabs
  • Paint brush


    Adult supervision and assistance is required as Iodine is used. 

 

Instructions:

  1. Mix two tablespoons of water and two tablespoons of lemon juice in a saucer.
  2. In another saucer, mix two tablespoons of water with a few drops of iodine. 
  3. Dip a cotton swab into the lemon juice mixture and write a secret message on the paper towel.
  4. Allow the message to dry completely. It will disappear once dry.
  5. When you are ready to read the message, dip the clean brush into the iodine mixture and brush it over the paper. The message will appear in a dark ink color.

 

 

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How it Works:

Paper contains starch, which turns purple when it reacts with iodine.  Lemon juice stops the color change so the areas where the message has been written remains white.

 

Make This A Science Project:

Try different types of paper. Try vinegar. Try other acidic fruit juices. 

 

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