Do Orbeez Dissolve In Water? Yes, But There’s A Catch
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Today we will find out: do Orbeez dissolve?
Like many of you, I was first introduced to Orbeez through their vibrant appearance and the promise of sensory delight they held.
These squishy, water-absorbent beads seemed almost magical, transforming into a captivating spectacle as they swelled in size. But what intrigued me the most was what happened when these gelatinous spheres met the very substance they were designed to interact with: water.
Before I reveal the fascinating details, let me assure you: Orbeez do dissolve in water, albeit not as quickly as one might expect. And the process is gradual and can take 8-12 months for those tiny orbs to fully disappear, leaving slimy and greasy water behind.
Composition of Orbeez
To understand how Orbeez dissolves in water, we first need to explore their composition. Orbeez are made of a super-absorbent polymer called sodium polyacrylate. It is a compound having a remarkable ability to absorb and retain large amounts of liquid, expanding in size as it does so.
The sodium polyacrylate molecules in Orbeez are structured in a network formation, creating spaces between them that can hold water. These spaces within the polymer matrix allow Orbeez to absorb and store liquid, leading to their soft and squishy texture when fully hydrated.
Also See: How to Dispose of Orbeez
Microorganisms and Dissolution of Orbeez
While the dissolution of Orbeez is not directly attributed to its composition, it still can dissolve and eventually fade away when placed in water for a long time.
The dissolution process of Orbeez is primarily influenced by the presence of bacteria within the water. Bacteria naturally inhabit various environments, including water sources, and they play a crucial role in breaking down organic matter.
When Orbeez interacts with water containing bacteria, these microorganisms start breaking down the polymer chains of sodium polyacrylate.
As the bacteria consume the organic components of the Orbeez, they produce enzymes that aid in the degradation process. These enzymes break the polymer chains into smaller fragments, leading to the release of water and the formation of a slimy texture.
Additionally, the breakdown of Orbeez by bacteria can result in the release of certain compounds that may contribute to a foul odor.
It is important to note that the dissolution process of Orbeez can vary depending on various factors, such as the type and concentration of bacteria present in the water, as well as the duration of exposure. The temperature and pH of the water may also influence the speed at which Orbeez breaks down.
Do Orbeez Melt or Dissolve in the Sun?
Orbeez, specifically hard Orbeez water beads, do not melt in the sun. These beads are designed to withstand exposure to sunlight without undergoing any significant changes in their physical properties.
So, if you have dry Orbeez beads placed under the sun, they will not melt or dissolve.
However, it is important to note that if Orbeez are in a hydrated state when exposed to sunlight and heat, the water within the beads will evaporate gradually. As the water evaporates, the Orbeez beads will shrink back to their original size.
Do Gel Balls Dissolve Upon Impact?
Yes, gel balls dissolve upon impact – this is their biggest benefit! Play with friends and family knowing there is no mess to clean up, and no impact on the environment as they’re biodegradable. In short, gel balls do dissolve upon impact, but the speed at which this occurs depends on a few different factors.
The first factor that affects the dissolving process is the surface area of the ball. The more contact that the ball has with the surface it is impacting, the faster it will dissolve.
The second factor is the temperature of the water. Warmer water will cause the balls to dissolve more quickly than colder water. Finally, the thickness of the ball can also affect how quickly it dissolves. Thinner balls will dissolve more quickly than thicker balls.
Can i Let Gel Balls Dissolve Outside?
Yes, it is safe to let your gel balls dissolve outside. Gel balls are made of non-toxic and biodegradable material, so they will not harm the environment when they dissolve. So, feel free to let your gel balls dissolve outside and enjoy a clean and environmentally-friendly activity!
1 Million Orbeez Dropping Into and Out of a Swimming Pool
Conclusion
While Orbeez do not fully dissolve in water, their transformation into a soft, squishy substance is possible after leaving them in water for months.
So, next time you indulge in the wonder of Orbeez, you can appreciate the chemical and biological processes at play that give them their unique properties. Whether it’s sensory play, decoration, or simple enjoyment, Orbeez continues to intrigue and captivate people of all ages.
