How to Make a Homemade Erupting Volcano

For a fun science project, make your own 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.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also make your volcano out of paper-mache or plaster. If you wish to reuse it, construct the volcano so that you can remove the bottle to wash. Coat your paper-mache or plaster volcano with a thick layer of varnish so that you can wipe it clean for future eruptions.

• Prepare for a big mess. You may wish to do the eruption portion of this project outside. Otherwise, lay down a large plastic trash bag over your workspace.

References

• Science Bob: Make Your Own Volcano
• Enchanted Learning: Volcano Craft
• Crystal Clear Science Fair Projects: Volcano Project