What can you use instead of cornstarch for making oobleck?

There several alternatives to cornstarch you can use to make oobleck. Here are some common suggestions:

1. Flour:Regular all purpose flour can create a non-Newtonian fluid similar to oobleck when mixed with water. The consistency may vary slightly from cornstarch oobleck, but the basic properties should be similar. Mix flour and water in a ratio of 1:1 until a gooey texture is achieved.

2. Potato Starch: Potato starch is another ingredient that, like cornstarch, can create a smooth and glossy non-Newtonian fluid when mixed with water. The ratio for potato starch and water is similar to cornstarch ooblek (1:1), but some adjustment might be needed depending on the exact type of starch.

3. Tapioca starch: Tapioca starch can also be used as an alternative to cornstarch in making oobleck. It has a slightly different texture and appearance compared to oobleck made with cornstarch or potato starch. It often results in a more transparent mixture. The ratio for tapioca starch and water can be 1:1 or adjusted as desired to achieve the right consistency.

4. Arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder, commonly used as a thickener in cooking, can also be an alternative for cornstarch in making oobleck. Similar to tapioca starch, it can result in a more transparent mixture. The ratio for arrowroot powder and water can vary, but it's generally around 1:1 or slightly less arrowroot powder.

5. Guar gum: Guar gum, a natural gum derived from guar beans, can also be used to create a non-Newtonian fluid when mixed with water. However, it forms a more viscous and slimy oobleck compared to cornstarch or other starches. The ratio for guar gum and water can be around 0.5:100, meaning 0.5 grams of guar gum per 100 milliliter of water.

It's important to note that these alternatives might produce slight variations in the exact texture and properties of oobleck compared to using cornstarch. Some adjustment in ratios and amounts might be needed to achieve the desired effect, so feel free to experiment with these ingredients and find what works best for you.