Build your own volcano and create a colorful eruption! You will learn how a chemical reaction between an acid and a base creates bubbly foam.

Tools

• mixing spoon

Materials

• plastic cup (12 oz, 1)
• cardboard base or tray (12x12 inch, 1)
• modeling clay or playdough (1 lb)
• water (1 cup)
• dish soap (1 squirt)
• red food coloring (5 drops)
• baking soda (3 tbsp)
• white vinegar (1 cup)

Safety

• Adult supervision required.
• Perform this experiment outdoors or on a waterproof tray to avoid messy cleanup.
• Avoid contact with eyes; if food coloring or vinegar gets in eyes, rinse with water immediately.
• Adult supervision required for sharp objects.
• Do not eat or drink any materials used in this project.
• Protect work surface. Materials may stain clothing.
• Adult supervision required for children under 8.

Steps

1. Place the plastic cup in the center of your cardboard base or tray to ensure it stays upright.
2. Build your volcano by molding the clay or playdough around the sides of the cup, shaping it into a mountain cone. Make sure to leave the top of the cup open so you can add ingredients.
3. Fill the cup inside the volcano with water until it is about 2/3 full.
4. Add one squirt of dish soap to the water to make the eruption extra bubbly.
5. Add 5 drops of red food coloring to give your lava a realistic color.
6. Add 3 tablespoons of baking soda to the mixture and stir well with the spoon.
7. Quickly pour the white vinegar into the cup and step back to watch your volcano erupt!