I Propose We make a golden rod paper that looks like it is bleeding

Goldenrod paper looks like it is bleeding when exposed to basic solutions.
Here's a video: enjoy!

Materials:

• Goldenrod paper
• Cotton balls
• Ammonia-water solution (household ammonia from the grocery store)
• Safety glasses
• Candle

Procedures:

1. Place a piece of goldenrod paper on the table. Make sure that table is clean and the work surface is dry.
2. Place a drop of water on one of the corners of the paper. Does anything happen?
3. Fill a jar with a small amount of ammonia water. Dip a cotton ball in the ammonia water and wipe it across the top portion of the goldenrod paper. Save the bottom half of the paper for step 5. Does anything happen?
4. As you continue to wipe designs on the goldenrod paper, notice that the paper does not stay red forever. What is causing the paper to change back to yellow?
5. Use the old piece of wax candle to write a secret message across the bottom half of the paper.
6. Wipe the cotton ball with ammonia water across the secret message to see what develops.

Safety Precautions:
1. If you get the basic liquid on your hands don't touch face or eyes.
2. Watch out for he sharp corners of the paper so you won't get a paper cut.

Scientific Principles:
1. Certain brands of goldenrod paper contain a special dye that turns bright red in solutions that are basic like ammonia water or washing soda.
2. The paper turns back yellow with an acid like vinegar or lemon juice.