How to Make a Vinegar Volcano

Learn the science of chemical reactions by creating your own erupting volcano using simple kitchen ingredients. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Prepare your base. Place your plastic bottle in the center of the tray. If you want it to look like a mountain, build your clay or paper around the bottle, making sure not to cover the opening at the top.
2. Add the dry ingredients. Use a spoon to carefully pour the baking soda into the bottle. If you are using a narrow-necked bottle, you might need to use a small paper funnel to get it all inside.
3. Mix the liquids. In a separate cup, mix the vinegar, dish soap, and a few drops of food coloring together. The soap helps create extra bubbles for a bigger eruption.
4. Cause the eruption. When you are ready, pour the vinegar mixture into the bottle with the baking soda. Stand back and watch the reaction happen!