Funtastik Labs
Sugar Land
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A classic science reaction · Sugar Land

Build the volcano. Trigger the eruption.

Shape the mountain, combine the ingredients, and watch carbon dioxide turn a familiar reaction into a foaming finale.

Build the experimentVisit the Science Lab
Children conducting a colorful science experiment at Funtastik Labs

Gather the ingredients.

Use a washable work surface or tray. An adult should handle the setup and supervise the full experiment.

  • Small plastic bottle
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Dish soap
  • Warm water
  • Food coloring
  • Clay or play dough
  • Tray and safety goggles

Safety: Work in a ventilated area, wear safety goggles, and avoid eye and skin contact. Never cap or seal the reaction container. Rinse splashes with plenty of water and ask an adult for help.

Clean up safely.

When the reaction stops, dilute the remaining mixture with plenty of water and pour it down the drain with an adult’s help. Wash the bottle, tray, tools, hands, and work surface. Do not save the mixed reaction in a closed container.

Build, mix, and erupt.

Keep the bottle opening clear while shaping the volcano around it.

  1. Shape the volcano

    Set the bottle on the tray and build a clay or play-dough cone around it.

  2. Prepare the color

    Fill the bottle partway with warm water, then add a few drops of food coloring.

  3. Build the foam

    Add a small squeeze of dish soap and about two tablespoons of baking soda.

  4. Make it erupt

    Pour in vinegar, step back, and watch the foam rise out of the opening.

What makes the foam rise?

Vinegar is an acid and baking soda is a base. When they combine, the reaction creates carbon dioxide gas. The dish soap catches that gas in bubbles, producing a larger stream of foam.

Change one variable

  • Test a little more or less baking soda.
  • Layer two food colors for a different look.
  • Add texture to the outside of the volcano.
  • Compare how high different mixtures rise.

Ready to play scientist with more equipment?

The Science Lab includes three guided experiments and two results to take home.

Explore the Science Lab

Your Funtastik Labs location

Sugar Land

13741 Southwest Fwy
Sugar Land, TX 77478
(346) 908-0604

Studio hours

Monday–Thursday
10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Friday
10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Saturday
10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Sunday
10 a.m.–6 p.m.
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