Pumpkin Lava Experiment

Goal:

• Observe what happens when baking soda is mixed with vinegar.
• Notice the chemical reaction that creates bubbles and foam (lava effect).
• Connect a science experiment with an autumn theme (pumpkin).

 
Materials:

• Small hollowed-out pumpkin
• Baking soda
• Vinegar (preferably clear, white vinegar)
• Food coloring (optional – orange, red, or yellow)
• Small cup or container
• Spoon

Procedure:

Hollow out the inside of the pumpkin and place it on a tray.
Put a small cup or container inside the pumpkin.
Add 2–3 tablespoons of baking soda to the cup.
Add a few drops of food coloring.
Slowly pour vinegar into the cup.
Observe what happens when the vinegar and baking soda mix.

Observations:

When the two substances combine, foam and bubbles begin to form.

The foam flows out of the pumpkin, looking like lava flowing from a volcano.
Children can observe, describe, and comment on the changes.

 

Explanation:

• Baking soda (a base) and vinegar (an acid) react to create carbon dioxide (CO₂).
• The gas forms bubbles and causes the foam to overflow — just like a lava eruption.

Expected Learning Outcomes:

• Children observe and recognize changes in matter (formation of bubbles and foam).
• Children develop curiosity and interest in science experiments.
• Children can describe what they saw in simple sentences.
• Children connect the experiment with natural phenomena (e.g., volcanic eruption).

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