Simple science and a cool chemical reaction with an easy DIY Alka Seltzer rocket! Kids and adults will have a blast with this cool kitchen science experiment. A few simple ingredients and you have chemistry in action. We love fun and easy science experiments anyone can try out!

Alka Seltzer Rocket Science ExperimentPin

Explore Alka Seltzer Science For Kids

Oh boy! Get ready for some fun with this Alka Seltzer Rocket. EASY setup and simple to do! Your kids will be asking you to repeat it over and over again. I know; mine did!

This Alka Seltzer rocket is super cool science with just a few simple household ingredients. Learn and play at home or in the classroom.

Our science activities have you, the parent or teacher, in mind! Easy to set up, and quick to do, most projects will take only 15 to 30 minutes to complete and are fun! Our supplies lists usually contain only free or cheap materials you can source from home.

Check out all our chemistry experiments and physics experiments!

Grab some Alka Seltzer tablets and film canisters, and follow our step-by-step instructions to make an Alka Seltzer rocket that will blast off!

Also check out how to make a water bottle rocket with baking soda and vinegar!

Introducing Science To Kids

Science learning starts early, and you can be a part of that with setting up science at home with everyday materials. Or you can bring easy science experiments to a group of kids in the classroom!

We find a ton of value in cheap science activities and experiments. All our science experiments use inexpensive, everyday materials you can find at home or source from your local dollar store.

We even have a whole list of kitchen science experiments, using basic supplies you will have in your kitchen.

You can set up your science experiments as an activity focusing on exploration and discovery. Make sure to ask kids questions at each step, discuss what is happening, and discuss the science behind it.

Alternatively, you can introduce the scientific method, get kids to record their observations and make conclusions. Read more about the scientific method for kids to help you get started.

Helpful Science Resources To Get Your Started

Here are a few resources to help you introduce science more effectively to your kiddos or students and feel confident when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.

What Makes Alka Seltzer Rockets Erupt?

This Alka Seltzer experiment is all about the chemical reaction between the tablet and the water. When the chemical reaction occurs, a gas called carbon dioxide is released.

We tried this experiment first without the lid to see what would happen! You can observe the gas from the bubbles formed.

However, with the lid on tight, pressure from the build up of gas occurs and the lid explodes off. This is what sends the canister into the air like a rocket! So much fun!

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Alka Seltzer Experiment

Don’t have alka seltzer tablets? Check out our baking soda and vinegar bottle rocket!

*Please Note* This is a fully adult supervised science experiment. The Alka Seltzer rocket has a mind of its own. Have your child wear safety goggles at all time.

Older children will be able to assemble the Alka seltzer rocket. Please use your best judgement regarding your child’s ability to handle the materials.

Supplies:

  • Alka Seltzer tablets
  • Water
  • Film canister or similar size container. What we are using is actually from the dollar store and sold in packages of 10. Make a rocket for everyone!
Alka Seltzer Chemical Reaction for KidsPin

How To Make Alka Selzter Rockets

We tried it a few different ways and re-used the still fizzing tablets as long as we could. Sometime we had a giant explosion  that hit the ceiling and sometimes it just popped a little.

Step 1: Fill the canister about 2/3 full with water and then drop in 1/4 of an alka seltzer tablet.

Step 2: Immediately tightly cap the canister. This is crucial to the success and you have to work fast.

Step 3: Turn the container upside down and place on a flat surface.

Tip: Take this experiment outdoors for easier clean up unless you have open space and don’t mind the water! See more Outdoor STEM activities!

Step 4: Stand back with protective eye wear on!

Alka Seltzer Rocket Set Up for EruptionPin

Your Alka Seltzer rocket may blast off immediately or there may be a delayed reaction. Make sure to wait long enough before going over to the canister if it hasn’t taken off yet. Give it a nudge with your foot first.

Ultimately, it would go off every time just when I was sure it would not! If the container has to much water in it, the blast off wasn’t as big. Experiment with different amounts of water to tablet!

What does an eruption look like from an Alka Seltzer rocket?

Capturing an Alka Seltzer rocket on camera is not easy since I was the only adult. I often didn’t have enough time to pick up my camera and get ready.

However, I can tell you that the laughter, pointing, and jumping up and down from my son is proof enough. You may even go through a whole package.

Alka Seltzer Rocket Film Canister Rocket Blast Off Eruption ChemistryPin

More Fun Experiments To Try

Science experiments with ordinary items are the best! You don’t need fancy science kits when you have cupboards full of great stuff to use!

Printable Science Projects For Kids

If you’re looking to grab all of the printable science projects in one convenient place plus exclusive worksheets, our Science Project Pack is what you need!

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