Test tube lava lamps
Overview
The principle of "oil and water don't mix" is intensified by adding in alka seltzer bubbling and food coloring.
Chemicals
Materials
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1 tab of alka seltzer
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20 mL any oil
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Food coloring (optional)
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250 mL water
*Note: These chemicals can be purchased locally at stores such as Walmart/Target.
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Glass dropper
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Eye dropper
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4 Test tubes in stand
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Nuffield spatula
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Mortar and pestle
Procedure
The Science Behind the Reaction
Once the water reaches the alka seltzer, the two chemicals in the tablets can react (citric acid and bicarbonate) forming carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide is released as a gas, the bubbles you see floating through the oil to the top.
Keep Experimenting!
Check out the Alka Seltzer website for more ideas on experimenting with alka seltzer.