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Make a Yeast & Hydrogen Peroxide Volcano

By , About.com Guide

Mixing yeast and peroxide causes a foamy 'eruption'.

A yeast and peroxide eruption is nice because you can color the foam with food coloring and the 'lava' lasts for several minutes.

Anne Helmenstine
Here's how to make a safe and easy chemical volcano using two common, inexpensive household ingredients.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: minutes

Here's How:

  1. It's incredibly easy to make this volcano. Basically, you pour the hydrogen peroxide solution (found in pharmacies and grocery stores) into a small bottle. When you are ready for the eruption, add a packet of quick rise yeast to the bottle. Stir in the yeast or swirl it around the container. Watch your 'volcano' foam and fizz!
  2. If you're seeking more exact measurements, try a half cup of hydrogen peroxide with 1/2 tablespoon of yeast. If you like, you can build a model volcano shape around the bottle using clay or a paper cone.

What You Need:

  • quick rising yeast
  • hydrogen peroxide
  • small bottle
  • measuring cups (optional)
  • paper or clay 'cone' (optional)

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