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
Photo Credits
- microscope image by christemo from Fotolia.com