Model volcanoes simulate the appearance of real volcanic eruptions.
While the eruption of a real-world volcano is produced by the pressure of magma (molten rock) from below the Earth's crust, the bubbly, fizzing eruption of a model volcano is a product of common household chemicals. Namely, a model volcano erupts because of the reaction between an acid (vinegar) and a base (baking soda), which combine to produce a large volume of carbon dioxide gas.
Instructions
Construction
1. Spread newspaper over your work area.
2. Cut a sheet of cardboard from the box that will fit into the bottom of the cookie sheet. This will be the base of the volcano.
3. Cut off the top of the plastic bottle. This will provide a larger outlet for the products of the chemical reaction, and also produces a more realistic looking model.
4. Glue the bottom of the bottle to the center of the cardboard base using the multipurpose white glue.
5. While the glue is drying, mix the clay, which will make up the bulk of the model. Start by combining the flour and salt in the mixing bowl, then add water slowly as you mix with your hands. Stop adding water as soon as the clay is able to hold its shape, as too much water will increase the time it takes for the clay to dry.
6. Starting with a wide base, build the clay up around the bottle into the shape of the volcano. If you require more clay (which is likely), then make more batches using the same recipe. You may require three or so batches for a volcano built around a 16 oz. drink bottle. Make sure to let the volcano dry for a time in between batches, so that the base can build up the structural integrity to support the weight of the clay above it.
7. Once the model has had some time to dry, carve gullies and channels into the outer surface to give the appearance of a real volcano. When the model has completely dried, you can paint it in any color scheme you desire.
Eruption
8. Set the volcano into the bottom of the cookie sheet so that the products of the eruption will be contained.
9. Using the funnel, pour the vinegar, dish detergent, and food coloring into the bottle at the core of the volcano. Remove the funnel when this is done.
10. Put the baking soda into a small pouch made of tissue paper and drop it into the top of the volcano. The eruption should begin in seconds! You can repeat this process as many times as you wish.
Tags: appearance real, baking soda, base build, bottom cookie, bottom cookie sheet, clay which, cookie sheet
