How to Make a Working Volcano Model

Making a volcano model with your kid can be an enjoyable and fun experience for both of you. Working volcano models are often entered into science fairs, and recreate a volcanic eruption in a controlled environment. In addition, these working models are very easy to make, and can be constructed from several different materials found around the house. How detailed you want to make the model is up to you; the model can be left without any decorations, or extra materials can be added in to give it a realistic look.

Things You'll Need

• Drink bottle
• 2 oz. and 2 cups water
• 1 tbsp. baking soda
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• Measuring cups
• 1/2 oz. orange food coloring
• 1 oz. detergent
• Tissues
• 6 cups flour
• 2 cups salt
• 4 tbsp. cooking oil
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

1. Put the two oz. of water, 1 oz. of detergent, 1/2 oz. of food coloring and quarter cup of vinegar in the bottle.

2. Pour six cups of flour, two cups of salt, four tbsp. of cooking oil and two cups of water into the mixing bowl. Stir the mixture until it has a dough-like consistency, then mold it around the bottle in a volcano shape, being careful not to cover the bottle opening. The dough will add detail and realism to the volcano model.

3. Wrap the baking soda in tissues, then drop it into the bottle. The model will erupt, as a result of the chemical reaction between the vinegar and baking soda. The orange food coloring will make the eruption look like lava.

References

• Volcano Live: How To Make A Volcano Model