Ingredients
- 1 clear plastic or glass bottle with a wide opening, 16 fluid ounces, washed and completely dry
- 1 battery-operated waterproof LED tea light, 1 light, cool-touch type
- 1 cup room-temperature water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar, added only when you are ready to create bubbles
- 4 to 6 drops liquid food coloring, one color or two colors
- 1 small funnel, about 2 inches wide, optional but helpful
- 1 long-handled spoon, 8 to 10 inches, for stirring
- 1 small measuring cup, 1 cup size
- 1 tablespoon measuring spoon
- 1 disposable table cover or washable drop cloth, 24 by 36 inches
- 1 pair protective gloves, household or disposable, optional for sensitive skin
- 1 sheet white paper, 8.5 by 11 inches, for checking the glow
- 1 roll paper towels, for spills and cleanup
- 1 small tray, at least 10 by 12 inches, to catch drips and hold the lamp
Instructions
- Cover your table with the drop cloth before measuring anything.
- Set the tray in the middle, keep paper towels nearby, and work where a small spill will not harm wood or fabric.
- Wash the clear bottle or jar with warm soapy water, then rinse it well. Dry the inside completely.
- Place the waterproof LED tea light on the tray and turn it on for a quick test. Set the empty bottle above it and check the glow from the side.
- Pour 1 cup room-temperature water into the bottle using the funnel.
- Add 2 tablespoons vegetable oil slowly, letting it settle on top without stirring.
- Add 4 to 6 drops of liquid food coloring, dropping the color near the center of the water.
- Measure 1 tablespoon baking soda into a dry spoon and sprinkle it into the lower part of the container through the funnel.
- Measure 1 tablespoon white vinegar in the small measuring cup and pour it in slowly while watching from the side.
- Let the lamp bubble for several minutes and observe the changes in movement.
- If the color looks too pale, add 1 or 2 more drops of food coloring after the first fizz settles.
- Turn off the LED tea light, remove it from beneath the bottle, wipe the bottom of the container, and place the light back under the bottle only when it feels dry.
- After the reaction ends, let the liquid settle for 10 to 15 minutes before moving it and clean up as advised.
Notes
Keep the liquid away from electrical contacts. Use only waterproof battery-operated LED lights. Children should work with an adult.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
