Baking Soda & Vinegar Chemical Volcano

The baking soda and vinegar volcano is a chemistry project you can use to simulate a real volcanic eruption, as an example of an acid-base reaction, or can do simply because it's fun. The chemical reaction between baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (acetic acid) produces carbon dioxide gas, which forms bubbles in the dishwashing detergent. The chemicals are non-toxic (though not tasty), making this project a good choice for scientists of all ages. A video of this volcano is available so you can see what to expect.

What You Will Need for the Volcano

• 3 cups flour
• 1 cup salt
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• empty 20-oz drink bottle
• deep plate or a pan
• gel food coloring
• dishwashing detergent
• baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
• vinegar (dilute acetic acid)