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Make a Volcano

This resource is a guide to building a volcano out of clay.  The reaction between vinegar and baking soda simulates a volcanic eruption. This resource is to a lesson that can be used to teach both chemical properties and reactions, but also major geological features.  The students can observe the physical and chemical properties of vinegar and baking soda and then also the reaction between the two.  The students can create their own volcano and simulate an eruption in a controlled setting.  The materials are easily acquired and inexpensive.  

Weblink address (URL): 
Make a Volcano

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

Students will understand the following:

  • A volcano can act as a giant cooling vent for Earth's inner core.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Applying
Extension suggestions: 
  • Volcano World
    • Have your students research volcanoes in the continental United States (e.g., Mount Saint Helens), and discuss their past and present activity levels. Students might contact local city or state governments for information on how these areas are being monitored.
  • Who Wants to Be a Volcanologist?
    • Have students contact the National Geographic Society for information on volcanologists and what they do. Have them describe the positive and negative aspects of a job as a volcanologist.

Helpful Hints

Materials:
Each group will need the following:

  • Newspaper
  • Smocks or lab coats for all group members
  • Modeling clay, salt dough, or soil
  • Small empty plastic soda bottle
  • Baking pan
  • Red food coloring
  • Liquid detergent
  • Two tablespoons (25 milliliters) baking soda
  • Funnel
  • Vinegar

References

Contributors: 
Jennifer Hassell
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation