Sands of the Nile

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Nile Sand , also known as Hindu Sands or Desert Sand , is a popular magic trick practiced since the early 20th century. It was the stage and television show of Doug Henning.

Video Sands of the Nile

Effect

Large transparent bowls are placed on the pedestal along with three colored sand stacks. The bowl is filled with water, often with some drinking wizards or giving it to members of the audience to show that it is just plain water. Stirring water with their hands, water becomes turbid or black. The colored sand is then poured into the bowl and stirred by hand. As it progresses, the magician reaches into the bowl to remove each sand color, separate and unmixed. With the last stir, the water was clear again, with some grains of sand remaining in it.

Maps Sands of the Nile

Method

The trick is to use simple chemistry for all its effects.

The color change from clear to blur and back can be achieved by using a number of simple chemical reactions. Almost all of the invisible acid/base ink formulas will work, with a common example being iodine that becomes apparent with sodium metabisulphite, or a mixture of tannic acid and ammonium sulphate iron that turns clear with oxalic acid. In both cases, chemicals are introduced during pouring, often using some containers with only the first pure water, or using a number of simple gadgets such as a fake thumb to store them during setup.

The sand is treated with hydrophobic compounds to produce what is commonly known as the magic sand or the Moon Sand. When poured into water, it naturally attaches to other grains, forming a pile or lump at the bottom of the bowl. The sand can be poured quickly in the spray and will still re-form, adding to the illusion it mixes into the water. Stirring hand done after pouring will leave this stack intact. The magician can then reach into the bowl and feel the pile, grab some of the sand and throw it into the air. Water has been removed from the pile, leaving the sand completely dry and free flowing.

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References

Source of the article : Wikipedia