Cytoplasm is the jelly-like material that fills a plant or animal cell. All of the cell’s organelles float in the cytoplasm. This clear substance is held in place by the cell wall. Create a cytoplasm-like substance for a school project with a simple recipe using glue and other common household products, such as borax. This recipe makes approximately 4 cups of "cytoplasm," so increase the recipe as needed if the model cell is larger.
- Warm water – 2 1/3 cups
- Borax – 3 tablespoons
- Mixing bowls – 2
- School glue – 2 cups
- Plastic bag
Remove all jewelry before using hands to mix the substances together.
Pour 1/3 cup of warm water into the mixing bowl. Add three tablespoons of borax and stir until dissolved. Do not add food coloring, as cytoplasm is supposed to be clear.
Pour 2 cups of warm water into another mixing bowl. Add the 2 cups of school glue and stir until dissolved.
Pour the borax solution into the glue solution. Mix with your hands for approximately 5 minutes or to the desired consistency. Store the finished cytoplasm in a sealed container, such as a resealable bag.
Things You'll Need
Tips
References
Tips
- Remove all jewelry before using hands to mix the substances together.
About the Author
Based in Minneapolis, Dawn Marcotte has been writing for more than 10 years. Her recent writing has turned to nonfiction and includes articles on home and garden, education, crafts and automotive subjects. She currently has several eBooks published and available online. Marcotte has a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from the University of Iowa.
Photo Credits
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