How to Make a Model Volcano Erupt

by elenwaren in Workshop > Science

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How to Make a Model Volcano Erupt

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Model volcanoes are a staple of student science fairs. They can also be a lot of fun for a summer family project. Making a model volcano erupt is a simple process. This article will tell you how to make a model volcano erupt.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup vinegar
  • 1/4 cup dish detergent
  • Red or orange food coloring
  • 2 tablespoons baking soda
  • Tissue

  1. Build your volcano. In the center, use a container to hold liquid. Depending on how big you are making your volcano, this can be an old water bottle, soda bottle with the top cut off, or even a simple glass jar.

  2. Add ingredients to your container. This includes water, vinegar, dish detergent and food coloring. Do not add your baking soda at this stage.

  3. Add the baking soda when you are ready for an eruption. Wrap the baking soda in a tissue and drop into the volcano. The baking soda will react with the vinegar and cause the eruption.

  4. When constructing your volcano, you could get very clever with release mechanisms for the baking soda. A hidden trip lever could be built in which is tripped with a fishing line. Attach the baking soda here, and pull the string instead of dropping the baking soda in the top! This is a way to surprise people at the fair!