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How to Build a Realistic Volcano

Making a model volcano is a useful way for kids to learn about volcanic eruptions. Use basic craft materials to simulate a volcanic eruption with vinegar and baking soda. Do this project in a clear area to avoid the "lava" damaging anything nearby. The project should take a couple of days to make in allowing the original materials to dry before you perform the simulation.

Things You'll Need

Cardboard box
Scissors
Plastic bottle
Chicken wire
Newspaper
Flour
Water
Craft paint
Vinegar
Baking soda
Funnel

Instructions

- 1
  Cut a sheet of cardboard one-foot by one-foot to act as the base for your volcano.
- 2
  Place a small plastic bottle in the middle of the cardboard. Draw a circle around the base of the bottle. Cut this circle out of the cardboard.
- 3
  Place the bottle in the hole in the cardboard. Arrange chicken wire around the sides to make the shape of a volcano by bending the wire. If you are working with kids, carefully supervise them to ensure that they do not hurt themselves.
- 4
  Mix one cup of flour with 1.5 cups of water. Stir the mixture until you make a paste. Tear a newspaper up into 1-inch long strips. Drag the strips through the paste and arrange them on the side of the chicken wire, overlapping them. Cover the entire chicken wire volcano frame. Leave the paper mache for one day to dry.
- 5
  Paint the paper mache design to look like a volcano. This can include lava tracks down the side if you so desire. Allow the paint several hours to dry.
- 6
  Pour a 1/4 cup of vinegar into the bottle in the volcano crater.
- 7
  Mix together 2 tablespoons of baking soda and red jelly granules.
- 8
  Insert a funnel into the top of the bottle. Pour in the baking soda and jelly granules. Retract the funnel quickly. Watch the simulated eruption take place.

Rocks & Minerals