Mr. Boxy
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Volcanoes have long been a stand-by for chemistry classes because they show the reaction between a base and an acid. When a base and acid are combined, a chemical reaction occurs, breaking both down into their components. In the case of vinegar and baking soda, the result is water and carbon dioxide. This reaction is done with soapy water, creating bubbles that create foam that bubbles out of the opening.
There are many ways to make the volcano cone, from shaped aluminum foil to paper mache. Whatever method you decide to use, the opening of the volcano needs to hold a waterproof container, such as a cup or bottle. A smaller opening will increase pressure for a taller eruption.
For the lava, you will need warm water, red food coloring, liquid dish washing soap, baking soda, and vinegar. Mix enough water to almost fill your volcano with a couple drops of food coloring, a couple drops of dish washing liquid, and one tablespoon of baking soda per cup of water. Fill your volcano with this mixture, then slowly pour in vinegar. You now have an eruption!
The great thing is this can be scaled up as big as you like. In 2008, Mt. Hood Community College made an attempt for the world's largest baking soda and vinegar volcano with a cone two stories high holding 150 gallons of vinegar and 150 pounds of baking soda:
 Posted 5462 day ago
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