Trying to find some rheostatic fluids

[GuitarDean]

I'm trying to do this demonstration for a high school class:

Using different shapes of "boats" I'm going to demonstrate how each boat shape affects the flow of water across it - does the water glide smoothly around the boat or become turbulent? My professor briefly mentioned that "rheostatic fluids" allow you to clearly see the paths of the water currents by changing colour, and so you can easily trace out the flow of the water. I haven't been able to find much information on this though, except for a highly technical MIT article on "smart fluids," but the fluid itself doesn't seem to be a widely available.

Does anyone know where I can find more information on rheostatic fluids? Or do I even have the right term at all? If so, what else might help me accomplish the stated goal?

 

[Andy Resnick]

I don't think a rheostatic fluid is appropriate for your application.

Something much easier is to use a ripple tank:

http://www.arborsci.com/detail.aspx?ID=823

 

[sir-pinski]

There are a few things you can do to find more information on rheostatic fluids and potentially obtain them for your demonstration.

Firstly, instead of searching for the term "rheostatic fluids," try using the term "flow visualization fluids." This may yield more results and information on the types of fluids used for this purpose.

Secondly, reach out to your professor or other science teachers for recommendations on where to find these fluids. They may have some suggestions or even have some on hand that you can use for your demonstration.

You can also try contacting science supply companies or educational materials suppliers to see if they carry flow visualization fluids or have any recommendations on where to find them.

Lastly, if you are unable to obtain these fluids, you can try using food coloring or dye in water to help visualize the flow of water around the boat shapes. While it may not be as precise as using rheostatic fluids, it can still be a useful and visually appealing demonstration for your high school class.

Good luck with your demonstration!