How to Make a Volcano Model - John Seach

The model below is an example of a simple, effective way to recreate a volcanic eruption.

Warning: Be careful when handling ingredients. Children should be supervised by an adult. Ingredients should be kept away from eyes.

Volcano model made using these instructions - John Seach

Ingredients
small drink bottle
60 ml water
1 tablespoon baking soda
1/4 cup vinegar
orange food colouring
few drops of detergent
small square of tissue.

Making the eruption
Place the water, soap, food colouring and vinegar in the drink bottle. Wrap the baking soda in the tissue and drop into the bottle. The volcano model will then erupt.

For extra realism
The volcano can be made more realistic by enclosing the structure in home made play dough. Mix 6 cups of flour, 2 cups of salt, 4 tablespoons of cooking oil, and 2 cups of water in a large bowl.

Mix the ingredients by hand until smooth and firm. Build up the mixture around the drink bottle to create the mountain. Lava channels and vegetation can be built around the volcano.

The chemical reaction

NaHCO3 + CH3COOH → Na+ + H2O + CO2 + CH3COO-

Carbon dioxide is released creating the fizz.