Erupting Rainbow Science Experiment for Kids Chemistry

I might just be waiting for Spring, but I love rainbows. With the 19″ of snow we got yesterday, I figured what better time than to share an erupting rainbow science experiment with you. So pretty and easy to do with kids, you can check out simple kids science in so many different ways.

FIZZING AND ERUPTING RAINBOW SCIENCE EXPERIMENT

AWESOME RAINBOW SCIENCE IS PERFECT ALL YEAR LONG

This isn’t the first time we have enjoyed rainbow themed science! Look at all the fun but also simple to do ways to explore beautiful colors while incorporating great science ideas too. Slimes, crystals, LEGO, and more! We have tons of science projects to choose from.

I have to say that my son has been really into our test tube science experiments, but you can use any clear jar or cup. Whether it’s mixing potions or dissolving candy. Adding a few science-themed items and tools can truly bring out the junior scientist with little expense.

Looking for easy to print activities, and inexpensive problem-based challenges?

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WHAT’S THE RAINBOW BAKING SODA SCIENCE

The science behind this fizzing, erupting rainbow activity is all about chemical reactions and states of matter!

When the acid (vinegar) and the base (baking soda) mix together, they form a gas called carbon dioxide. This gas is all the fizzing bubbling action you can see, hear, and even feel if you put your hand close enough! Would lemon juice work too?

All three states of matter are present: liquid (vinegar), solid (baking soda), and gas (carbon dioxide). When the liquid and solid combine, they form a gas.

You can continue to add vinegar and baking soda to keep the reaction going as much as you like. We had to work fast to get the whole rainbow fizzing at the same time.

ERUPTING RAINBOW SCIENCE EXPERIENT SUPPLIES

Vinegar
Baking Soda
Dish Soap {optional}
12 Test Tubes
Test Tube Rack
Food Coloring
Spoon and Measuring Cup

ERUPTING RAINBOW SCIENCE EXPERIMENT SET UP

The first step is to mix up all the colors of the rainbow by adding food coloring to vinegar! We set up two rows of 6 test tubes and filled one row with vinegar. Practice color mixing by adding food coloring to the vinegar.

The second step is to add a couple of spoonfuls of baking soda to the other row of test tubes. Now if you don’t have test tubes yet, you can use mini water bottles or small vases.

You want to use something that is narrow enough to force the chemical reaction up and out for the eruption effect. If you use a wider vessel, the gas will have more room to spread out before it spreads up! You will also need to consider adding more baking soda to a larger container.

Lastly, add a couple of drops of dish soap to each test tube containing baking soda.

Now for the fun part, mixing! Once you have explored the original rainbow science reaction experiment, my son was thrilled to go ahead and mix colors together, add baking soda or whatever. Science can be really fun!

MAKE SURE NOT TO MISS: Rainbow STEAM Activities for Kids

Beautiful rainbow science you can find in your kitchen cupboards! Kids will love this cool chemical reaction and erupting rainbows science experiment the next time you have a free hour to play and explore.