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Explore the fascinating structure of a dandelion pappus and observe what happens when it comes into contact with water.
Materials
- One mature dandelion flower at the fluffy ball stage (white puffball)
- A clear glass or jar filled with water
- Magnifying glass (optional)
Instructions
- Find a full, fluffy white dandelion.Cut the stem a few centimeters below the puffball.
- Fill a clear glass or jar with clean water. Let the surface become still.
- Gently lower the fluffy dandelion into the water, fluff side down.Watch closely. It doesn’t get wet! The white fluff stays dry and forms a shiny, silvery layer around it.
- Carefully lift the dandelion out of the water. The fluff is still dry!
What’s going on?
- The fluffy white ball is called a seed head, and each tiny parachute in it is a pappus.
- This waterproof design helps dandelion seeds stay light and travel far in the wind, even after it rains.
Level
- Beginner
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