Photo by Maxime Bhm on Unsplash

Science experiments are a fun way to have some hands-on activities while also being an educational moment. This article will discuss three fun and easy science activities for you to try at home.

This first project will help you explore a chemical reaction between water, oil, and Alka-seltzer! These three ingredients come together to form a homemade lava lamp.

For this first project you will need:

• 1 clean, plastic soda bottle with cap

• Vegetable oil

• 1 Alka-Seltzer tablet for a 16 oz soda bottle or 2 tablets for per liter bottle

• Food coloring

• Water

To begin you will need to gather your materials, and find a good working surface that cannot be damaged by oil. Next, fill the plastic bottle ¾ full with vegetable oil. Then add water to the neck of the bottle, leaving a little space between the waterline and the top of the bottle.

Now you can pick a color for your ‘lava lamp’ bottle. Add 10 or more drops of food coloring to the bottle until a rich color appears. Next, break your Alka-Seltzer tablet into about 6-8 smaller pieces. Add each piece in one at a time, observing each chemical reaction as you go.

When the bubbling finally stops, you can replace the bottle cap. Then tip the bottle back and forth and observe the reaction. Tip, twist and shake the bottle in different directions. Observe the reactions and enjoy!

This second project will turn an everyday bar of Ivory soap into something much more fun! To get started with this project you will need:

• A bar of Ivory soap (For this experiment to work, this should be specifically Ivory brand because of the soap’s high air content)

• A large microwave-safe plate

• A microwave

First, you will need to unwrap your soap. Then place the soap on a plate, and heat in the microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. Observe as the soap grows into a fluffy cloud!

This final project is a simple yet fun exploration of a traditional science classic, the fizzy baking soda, and vinegar reaction! To get started with this project you will need:

• A box of baking soda

• A small dish filled with white vinegar

• medicine droppers

• food coloring

• a baking sheet

First, add an even layer of baking soda to the baking sheet. Then take your food coloring and add drops of color all over the layer of baking soda. Be as creative as you want here. Now, add a drop of vinegar on top of the food coloring and watch for the magic to instantly begin.

Clara Busé is a recent graduate from SCAD, Savannah College of Art and Design. She has a BFA in Writing and is currently working from her hometown, Atlanta.