Can cinnamon keep your finger dry? Fill a clear glass with water, then sprinkle a thick, even layer of ground cinnamon across the entire surface. Slowly push one dry finger straight down through the cinnamon and into the water, without swirling it around.

Pull your finger straight back out.

Is it wet or dry?

The cinnamon contains oils that don’t mix easily with water. The powder forms a hydrophobic layer between your finger and the water, creating a surprisingly convincing little science trick.

Try It Again: Wet another finger first, then dip it through the cinnamon. Does the same thing happen?

Want to explore the science?
See the full Hydrophobic Cinnamon experiment from the American Chemical Society, including observation questions and an explanation of why it works.