An Extreme Volcano Science Project

Everyone has heard of the classic volcano sciencevolcano? It is just a science experiment, and science
project using vinegar, baking soda, and a little bit of redshould be fun! After applying your paint, make sure
food coloring. This little experiment, however, is a littlethat it is completely dry before you begin the next
more extreme, and a little more realistic (do not worry,stage: Explosion!
it is not actually dangerous!). This guide will teach youNow it is time to add the trigger to the equation. Go to
how to create a volcano project that really erupts withyour local convenience store and buy a roll of mint
some force.Mentos. It is very important that you buy these in
Unfortunately, the fake lava is not going to be quite soparticular, as nothing else will work correctly.
realistically red, but sometimes compromise meansReady your presentation in a clear, outdoor space
sacrifices! Here we go:(trust me; you do not want this volcano erupting
Gather your building supplies. For this project, you areindoors!). Carefully take the cap off your diet cola,
going to need to start with a volcano. A prepackagedwhich, if you have followed directions, should be
paper mache kit is recommended. Next, you need ahoused securely in your paper mache volcano.
two-liter bottle of diet cola. Use your paper mache kitCommence with a dramatic countdown, and at its
to build a mountainous, volcanic structure around theconclusion, drop a couple of the Mentos into the cola.
bottle, leaving a hole at the top large enough toERUPTION!
facilitate opening the soda bottle. Give your paperThis is a fun experiment to do at school or at home,
mache plenty of time to dry before you attempt thebut if you are planning to attempt it, there are a few
next step, or else you will end up with a sticky messsafety precautions to take. The reaction of the cola to
on your hands.the mints is very strong, and you definitely do not want
Paint your volcano. This is where you can get prettyto put your face near the opening of the soda bottle
creative, even though most volcanic mountains lookfor the initial eruption. It is recommended that you wear
pretty much the same. You can go for the standardgoggles or some type of protective eyewear if you
black and brown color of rocks and dirt, or you canare going to be the one tossing the mints in the soda.
get a little artsy. Why not make a tie-dye themedOther than that, enjoy the spectacle!