Ingredients
- 1 clear plastic bottle or glass jar, 16 fluid ounces, with a wide opening
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil, such as canola or sunflower oil
- 1/2 cup room-temperature water
- 5 to 8 drops liquid food coloring, one color
- 1 effervescent antacid tablet, any standard tablet that fizzes in water
- 1 small spoon, 6 to 8 inches long, for guiding the water
- 1 measuring cup, 1 cup size or larger
- 1 small measuring cup or bowl, 1/2 cup size or larger
- 1 sheet of newspaper or a washable table covering, about 24 by 18 inches
- 1 clean dish towel, about 16 by 24 inches
- 1 pair of protective glasses, especially for children
- 1 pair of disposable gloves, optional for sensitive hands or easy cleanup
- 1 shallow tray, about 12 by 8 inches, optional but helpful for catching drips
Instructions
- Cover the table before you measure anything.
- Wash and dry the container. Rinse the jar or bottle with warm water, then dry the inside completely.
- Set the container in a tray.
- Measure the oil. Pour 1 1/2 cups of vegetable oil into the measuring cup, then transfer it to the container.
- Let the oil settle. Wait 3 to 5 minutes while the surface becomes still.
- Color the water. Add 5 to 8 drops of food coloring to 1/2 cup of room-temperature water. Stir gently with the spoon.
- Add the water slowly. Hold the spoon just above the oil and pour the colored water over the back of it in a thin stream.
- Wait for clear layers. Give the container 5 to 10 minutes to settle.
- Break the tablet. Place 1 effervescent tablet on a dry plate or folded towel and break it into 4 to 6 pieces with your fingers.
- Start the bubbles. Drop one tablet piece into the container and watch the lower layer.
- Make room for mistakes. Wait a few minutes before changing anything if the first attempt looks uneven.
- Try a second cycle. Add another tablet piece when the first one stops.
- Finish and clean up. Wipe the outside with the dish towel and leave the container open for 10 to 20 minutes if the rim feels damp.
Notes
Keep the mixture away from eyes and mouths, and supervise children. Use protective glasses if a child is participating.
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
