Building a Homemade Erupting Volcano Science Project

Volcanoes are some of the most fascinating natural wonders in the world. It is no small wonder that students everywhere choose this molten wonder for their science project each year. Building a homemade volcano is actually quite simple, and does make a great science project when done correctly. Here is some quick easy steps to building a homemade volcano:

Supplies:

--Sand

--Small square sandbox or square plywood board

--Teaspoon of baking soda

--Four drops of red food coloring or dye

--Small plastic cup

--Vinegar

--Any accessories you can build to add to the effect (things like trees, a lake, or bushes, etc...)

The first thing to do for your homemade volcano science project is to pile the sand in the sandbox or on top of the plywood. If you are using a piece of plywood for the base, be sure to put up some type of borders to keep the sand in place. If you do not have sand, you may also use dirt or plaster. Sand is definitely the best option if available.

Next, you will want to dig out a hole in the center of the volcano to insert the plastic cup into. Take your water bottle and keep the sand wet while forming these things. It makes the sand easier to form. Make sure that you dig some ridges into the sides of the volcano for special effects. Also, dig trenches throughout the science project for the lava to run through.

The next step is to add the baking soda to the plastic cup within the volcano. Once you have done this, add three or four drops of red food coloring. This red food coloring will become molten red lava when you add the vinegar to the mix. The effect is spectacular.

At this point you are ready for the science project to come to life. As soon as you are ready for the eruption, go ahead and add the vinegar. The volcano will come bubbling to life, and you will have one heck of a science project. Red, flowing lava will work its way out of the volcano and down the sides through the trenches. Make absolutely certain that you take the time to fix up the project with miniature trees, bushes, and even some lakes. It truly adds to the realism of your homemade volcano science project.

Be sure to follow proper safety precautions when you build this homemade volcano. Do not set off the science project inside the house as it can certainly go faster than you planned. The last thing you want is molten lava all over your new carpet. Stick to the measurements shown for the ingredients as using more will cause larger eruptions. This is not a good thing unless you have planned for it. Make sure that children are fully supervised while completing this homemade science project. The ingredients are considered combustible and dangerous and should be supervised.