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How to Make a Homemade Erupting Volcano

The erupting volcano is a science project that will really grab the attention of your students. It can also be a fun project for a nature-themed birthday party. The eruption results from the chemical reaction between two common household substances. An acid (vinegar) neutralizes a base (baking soda) and produces carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide causes the bubbles that make your volcano erupt.

Things You'll Need

Clay
A small plastic bottle or container
Baking sheet or large plate
Baking soda
Liquid dishwashing soap
Vinegar
Red or orange food coloring
Funnel

Instructions

- 1
  Place your plastic bottle in the center of a large plate or baking sheet. Build up your clay around it into a mountain shape, leaving an opening at the top. Decorate it with pebbles and moss for a realistic-looking model.
- 2
  Drop 4 tbsp. of baking soda down into the bottle. Use a funnel if your bottle has a narrow opening.
- 3
  Add 1 tsp. of liquid dishwashing soap into the bottle. Add about 1/4 cup of water and a few drops of red food coloring.
- 4
  Add 1/2 cup of vinegar all at once; then back away. The volcano will erupt immediately.

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