The Magic Cup

What you need:

• A glass or ceramic cup
• Styrofoam packing peanuts
• Acetone (you can get it from nail polish remover or at paint stores)

Safety Concerns:

• This experiment requires adult supervision.
• Acetone is extremely flammable - DO NOT try this experiment near any flames, (like pilot lights on a stove or an operating barbeque grill) because of the risk of FIRE! If acetone catches on fire, water may not put it out!
• Acetone is also harmful if swallowed or inhaled so use it in a well ventilated area (outside is best).
• Be sure to wash the cup carefully if you intend to use it for coffee again. An extra two washings with soap and water would be a good idea.
• Safe disposal: After you are done doing "magic", set the cup outside and let the acetone evaporate. The leftover material will turn hard and can then be thrown away in the garbage.

 Link to a site with a LOT of detailed chemical information about acetone and its safe use

Procedure:

All you need to do for this experiment is pour a little acetone into the cup (perhaps 1/4 full) and then start dropping the Styrofoam peanuts in. Choose your own dramatic presentation to make it work like a magic show.