Science Research
Activities
- All Science Research Activities
- Into the World of Microscopes [ 5 ]
  Learn about how microscopes work, and explore the kinds of ways scientists use microscopes for research.
- Everyday Emulsions [ 11 ]
  Use everyday chemistry to explore molecular forces and make lotion!
- Escape the Cell [ 8 ]
  Have you ever used an escape room to learn about the central dogma?
- Beyond Dirt: The Ecosystem Beneath our Feet [ 3 ]
  Explore how soil chemistry and ecosystems open the door to deep scientific investigation.
Research
Programs
- Research Programs @ Rockefeller
- Student Posters from Research Programs
Inclusive
Mentorship
- All Inclusive Mentorship Resources
- In-Reach Infrastructure [ 18 ]
  Step-by-step guides of programs that have supported mentorship in the Rockefeller University scientific community.
- Continued Learning for Mentors [ 9 ]
  Resources and reflections to keep growing as a mentor, leader, and trustworthy collaborator.
- Inclusive Science Systems [ 23 ]
  Exploring the systems, structures, and relationships that make science more inclusive and connected.
- Guide to LGBTQIA+ Allyship for Mentors
Podcasts
& Webinars
Blog
- View All Blog Posts
- SSRP Icons [ 17 ]
  Spotlighting student stories and experiences from RockEDU’s Summer Science Research Program.
- Meet RockEDU's Mentors [ 15 ]
  Meet the Rockefeller, Weill Cornell, and Sloan Kettering community members who power RockEDU’s Mentorship Ecosystem and inspire future scientists.
- Science Spotlight [ 34 ]
  Science Spotlight explores how science works by illuminating discoveries, ideas, and the people behind them.
About

A Dye Test to Classify Emulsions

Use everyday dyes to reveal the dispersed and continuous phases of your emulsion.

Topics:

Physical Science , Chemical Reactions

Author:

Yemi Shin , Disan Davis

Published Date:

December 19, 2019

Last Updated:

March 2, 2026

This activity will help identify the type of emulsion the samples represent by revealing the dispersed and continuous phases of the emulsion.

Materials

Materials

Samples
Oil Red O
Red Food Coloring

Equipment

Microscopy glass plates
pipette
(Optional) Microscope

Protocol

On two glass microscopty plates, transfer 2-3 drops of your sample using a pipette.
On one plate, dispense one drop of Oil Red O and on the other dispense one drop of red food coloring.
Mix the sample and coloring well on each plate.
Describe the color dispersion within the sample.
(Optional) Put the plate under the microscope and observe the micelles. Which part of the sample is dyed and which part isn’t? — can you tell the dispersed phase and continuous phase?

Full Classifying Emulsions Lab

A Viscosity Test to Characterize Emulsions

Science Research Activities
- Science Research Activities
- All Science Research Activities
- Into the World of Microscopes [ 5 ]
  Learn about how microscopes work, and explore the kinds of ways scientists use microscopes for research.
- Everyday Emulsions [ 11 ]
  Use everyday chemistry to explore molecular forces and make lotion!
- Escape the Cell [ 8 ]
  Have you ever used an escape room to learn about the central dogma?
- Beyond Dirt: The Ecosystem Beneath our Feet [ 3 ]
  Explore how soil chemistry and ecosystems open the door to deep scientific investigation.
Research Programs
Inclusive Mentorship
- Inclusive Mentorship
- All Inclusive Mentorship Resources
- In-Reach Infrastructure [ 18 ]
  Step-by-step guides of programs that have supported mentorship in the Rockefeller University scientific community.
- Continued Learning for Mentors [ 9 ]
  Resources and reflections to keep growing as a mentor, leader, and trustworthy collaborator.
- Inclusive Science Systems [ 23 ]
  Exploring the systems, structures, and relationships that make science more inclusive and connected.
- Guide to LGBTQIA+ Allyship for Mentors
Podcasts & Webinars
Blog
- Blog
- View All Blog Posts
- SSRP Icons [ 17 ]
  Spotlighting student stories and experiences from RockEDU’s Summer Science Research Program.
- Meet RockEDU's Mentors [ 15 ]
  Meet the Rockefeller, Weill Cornell, and Sloan Kettering community members who power RockEDU’s Mentorship Ecosystem and inspire future scientists.
- Science Spotlight [ 34 ]
  Science Spotlight explores how science works by illuminating discoveries, ideas, and the people behind them.
About

Your browser is out of date!

Update your browser to view this website correctly. Update my browser now