purposeful play
Apple Volcano Science Experiment
science activity for kids
The Apple Volcano Science Experiment is a colorful fall science activity for kids! This simple STEM experiment is a hands-on, exciting way for kids to explore science concepts and beginning chemistry reactions. Apple Volcanoes are easy to make and will keep your kids engaged and learning at home!
materials
purpose
- experiment with cause and effect
- explore chemistry reactions
- hands-on science exploration
- screen-free fun
- fun with color exploration
It’s a chemical reaction
Baking soda is the base
Vinegar is the acid
When a base and acid are mixed together- a gas called carbon dioxide is formed causing the bubbling reaction
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directions
How to make Erupting Apple Volcanoes
Carefully cut a hole in the top of an apple
Cut out some of the flesh of the apple-leaving about half of the core and flesh intact
Drizzle dish soap inside the apple
This step is optional-the dish soap just creates a foamier reaction
Add a spoonful of baking soda to the inside of the apple
Add drops of food coloring to the baking soda
If you would like a vibrant color reaction-be sure to be very generous with the food coloring!
Allow the food coloring to soak in for a minute or two
This is a fun way to explore color mixing-try adding red and yellow, red and blue OR blue and yellow to the apple and watch to see the color of the reaction after you add the vinegar
Time for the volcano eruption!
Slowly pour vinegar inside the apple
Watch the reaction!
Continue exploring the erupting volcano by adding in more baking soda, food coloring and vinegar
You can add droppers and spoons and allow your child to scoop and pour the foamy liquid in the tray
