Title: Tornado in a Jar
Categories: Kids
Yield: 1 Tornado

1		8"-10" empty tall clear Jar with lid -- medium-sized spaghet
		Blue Food Coloring (opt.)
		Liquid Dishwashing Detergent

Even if you don't live in tornado country, the dramatic and unpredictable nature of twisters commands the respect of all people. The image of Dorothy being swept away to the land of Oz by a tornado in Kansas lives in our memories and imagination. Here's a safe version of this fascinating force of nature you can create at home or camp.

Fill the jar with water to 1" from the rim. Add 3-4 drops of food coloring (which is optional) and 1 teaspoon detergent. Screw the lid tightly to the jar. Hold the jar horizontally in front of you with hands on both ends. Shake the bottle straight out in front of you in a smooth, rapid, circular motion about 10 times. Immediately turn the bottle upright. A tornado will emerge and twist around for about 8 seconds. It's amazing! Let the water settle and repeat. Talk about the damage tornadoes can cause and also review safety steps you should take if a tornado is sighted.

Source: Mad Scientist 1995 Girl Scout Day Camp

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