If you are considering working on a great craft idea or science project, one of the most popular ones is the homemade erupting volcano. This wonderful craft idea is fun, exciting, and rather easy to do as well. Every year it is among the top science project ideas at schools around the world also. Here is how to build the ultimate homemade erupting volcano:
1. The first thing you want to do is to build a small four by four foot sandbox. Size is optional here, but you want to have room to build areas for the lava to flow from your volcano, as well as some trees, bushes, and so on. You can also use a piece of plywood with edges added to keep from spilling the lava over the sides. Next, you will want to fill the sandbox with a small even layer of sand, dirt, or plaster. Sand is the top option for flexibility.
2. Next, you will want to form the volcano out the sand. Use a water source to wet the sand to where you can form the volcano easier. As you form the volcano, insert a plastic cup into the center of the volcano and leave an opening at the top like an actual volcano would have. This opening should then drop down into the open end of the plastic cup.
3. After your volcano is formed, add a teaspoon of baking soda to the cup, as well as four drops of red food coloring. This is the basis for the eruption. It is now ready for you to set it off when ready.
4. Add details to your homemade erupting volcano. Put ridges in the volcano and sand, as well as trees bushes and the like. Anything to make the project or craft more realistic is a great idea. Remember that a volcano is one of the most incredible examples of nature in existence, and should be quite impressive in appearance.
5. Once you have everything in place, you can prepare for the volcanic eruption. Make sure the project is on level ground and that you are in a safe place as far as overflow. You do not want volcano lava on Mom’s white carpet.
6. Add in vinegar to the baking soda, and the volcano will bubble to life. The lava will erupt and flow down the sides of the volcano and into the valley below. This is a very cool art project or science project, and you will be surprised at how lifelike it really is! People will be very impressed!
