One way to design an effective science experiment is to build a volcano inside a coconut shell. The coconut shell will allow you to skip having to create a papier mâché volcano but still provides you with a solid and sturdy base for your experiment. Aside from the logical reasons, watching one of these volcanoes explode is simply cool!
EditSteps
EditSetting up
- Create a work area. This is a messy project so find an area that can cope with getting a little messy or work in an area that can be covered thoroughly with newspaper.
- Consider doing this experiment inside a deep sink or on a pan that has four raised sides.
- Fill empty and clean yogurt cup halfway with baking soda. Be sure the cup has not only been rinsed and cleaned, but is completely dry before adding the baking soda.
- Place the empty coconut shell half on top of the yogurt cup. The shell should be free from any coconut flesh and should have the typical three holes on the top of the shell (used to drain water when opened).
EditSetting off the coconut volcano
- Combine ½ cup of white vinegar with several squirts of red food coloring in a separate plastic cup. Gently mix and then add a few drops of dish soap.
- Dip the nasal aspirator into the vinegar mixture. Suck up as much liquid as possible. You may want to perform this action near the coconut as you will be transferring the mixture into the coconut.
- Squirt the liquid into one of the holes on the top of the coconut. Drain the aspirator slowly so the liquid permeates the baking soda.
- Wait a few seconds and watch your volcano explode. Red, frothy lava should begin to bubble and ooze out of the top of the coconut (exploding from the holes) and down the sides.
EditTips
- Make the volcano re-erupt by washing out the yogurt cup and replacing with fresh baking soda.
- Create a “clear” volcanic explosion by omitting the red food coloring. You can avoid getting red on everything, plus whatever the liquid hits will get a little “cleaner” thanks to the combination of baking soda, dish soap and vinegar.
- Perform this experiment in the tub if you have small children. Could be a fun bath time activity (just make sure your child is not allergic to any of the ingredients).
- Use the experiment as a way to improve your child’s motor functions (having to suck up the liquid in the aspirator and then inject it into the coconut holes).
EditThings You’ll Need
- Empty coconut shell (cut in half)
- Empty yogurt or applesauce cup
- Plastic cup
- White vinegar
- Red food coloring
- Dish soap
- Baking soda
- Nasal aspirator (or a small poultry baster)
EditSources and Citations