Description
Create a mesmerizing and fun DIY lava lamp with simple household ingredients. This easy project combines oil, water, food coloring, and effervescent tablets to produce a captivating science experiment perfect for kids and educational activities.
Ingredients
Scale
Materials
- 1 clear glass or plastic bottle (16–20 oz)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 6–8 drops food coloring (any color)
- 1–2 tablespoons effervescent tablets (such as Alka-Seltzer)
- Optional: glitter or small sequins for extra sparkle
Instructions
- Pour the vegetable oil: Fill the bottle about three-quarters full with vegetable oil.
- Add water: Pour water into the bottle to fill the remaining space, leaving about an inch at the top to prevent spills.
- Let separate: Wait a few moments for the oil and water to separate into two distinct layers.
- Add food coloring: Drop 6–8 drops of food coloring into the bottle. The color will mix with the water layer but not with the oil, creating a colorful effect.
- Start the lava effect: Break the effervescent tablet into small pieces. Drop one piece into the bottle and watch as bubbles rise and fall, simulating lava movement.
- Maintain the effect: Add more pieces of effervescent tablets as needed to keep the bubbles flowing.
- Add sparkle (optional): Sprinkle in glitter or small sequins for extra visual appeal.
Notes
- Use a funnel to prevent spills when pouring liquids into the bottle.
- Clear bottles work best to fully enjoy the lava effect.
- Always supervise children during this activity, especially when handling effervescent tablets.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Not edible
- Calories: 0
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
