How to Make Lava for a Shield Volcano Model

Hardened lava flow from a shield volcano

A shield volcano, such as those that formed Hawaii, is built from lava flows. These create a broad and gently sloping dome shape. The violent eruption when vinegar and baking soda mix together is a good representation of a cone volcano, not a shield volcano. Create a slow-moving, gooey substance for the lava in a shield volcano model.

Things You'll Need

• 1 1/3 cup warm water and 1 1/2 cup warm water
• 3 teaspoons powdered Borax
• 6 drops red food coloring
• 2 cup measuring cup
• Wooden spoon
• 2 cups school glue
• Mixing bowl
• Plastic bag

Instructions

1. Mix 1 1/3 cups of warm water with the Borax in the measuring cup. Stir with a wooden spoon. Mix in 6 drops of red food coloring. Set aside.

2. Mix 1 1/2 cups of warm water with the 2 cups of glue in a mixing bowl. Use the wooden spoon to stir. Pour the solution from Step 1 into the bowl with the glue mixture.

3. Gently lift and turn the mixture repeatedly. Not all of the water will be absorbed by the new substance. Continue turning until approximately 2 tablespoons of water are left unabsorbed. Lift the final result up and allow the excess water to drip off. The substance will be sticky for a moment. Place in plastic bag for storage.

Tips & Warnings

• Add yellow food coloring to make the lava orange if desired. Cut the recipe in half and make a red and an orange, then mix together in the volcano model for a more realistic lava.

• The food coloring will stain, so handle carefully.

References

• U.S. Geological Survey: Shield Volcano
• Little Shop of Physics: Goo Recipe
• Ariscool: Goop Recipe