Baking Soda Volcano
Create an exciting baking soda volcano that erupts with colorful lava while teaching about chemical reactions.
Ingredients
Volcano Structure
- 1 plastic bottle Plastic bottle or small container (for the volcano) Use a container with an open top for the eruption.
- 1-2 tablespoons Paper mâché or clay Optional for building the volcano shape.
Eruption Ingredients
- 1-2 tablespoons Baking soda
- 1 cup Vinegar Best choice for the reaction.
- 1-2 tablespoons Dish soap Optional for foamier eruption.
- as desired Food coloring Optional for visual effect.
Equipment
- 1 Tray or baking sheet To contain the mess.
- 1 Funnel For easy pouring of vinegar.
Instructions
Preparation
- If using paper mâché or clay, mold it around your plastic bottle to create a volcano shape.
- Ensure the top of the bottle is open to allow for the eruption to flow out.
Setting up
- Place the volcano on a tray or baking sheet to catch spills and make cleanup easier.
Mixing the Eruption Ingredients
- In your volcano, add 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda.
- If desired, squirt in a bit of dish soap to make the eruption foamier.
- Add food coloring for visual effect.
Erupting the Volcano
- Using a funnel, pour 1 cup of vinegar into the bottle.
- Stand back and watch your volcano erupt with bubbling, colorful lava!
Notes
For color variations, use different food coloring. To create a magical lava look, mix in some glitter. Adjust the size for tabletop or outdoor displays. For a scented eruption, add essential oils.