Explore the phenomenon of surface tension in this simple experiment using household materials.

Surface tension is the way molecules on the surface of water stick tightly together. It’s what allows objects like leaves, pine needles and some insects to sit on top of water.

Try filling a glass of water to the brim. If you add more water very slowly, the level of the water will rise above the top of the glass, forming a dome. This is due to surface tension.

You can also break the bond between water molecules—and surface tension—by adding soap to water.

See for yourself by completing a simple experiment using a pan, heavy paper, water and dish detergent or shavings from a bar of soap.