Discover the Joy of Science: 16 Experiments Perfect for Elementary Students
WOW! The 5th graders at Northridge Elementary School participated in our lesson NEWTON’S 2nd LAW OF MOTION. Their experiments helped them understand force, mass, and acceleration. https://t.co/IRMc0iv6RJ pic.twitter.com/a93gleNPnL — WPAFB EO Office (@wpafbeo) March 2, 2022
68 Best Chemistry Experiments: Learn About Chemical Reactions
Whether you’re a student eager to explore the wonders of chemical reactions or a teacher seeking to inspire and engage your students, we’ve compiled a curated list of the top 68 chemistry experiments so you can learn about chemical reactions.
While the theories and laws governing chemistry can sometimes feel abstract, experiments bridge the gap between these concepts and their tangible manifestations. These experiments provide hands-on experiences illuminating the intricacies of chemical reactions, molecular structures, and elemental properties.
1. Covalent Bonds
By engaging in activities that demonstrate the formation and properties of covalent bonds, students can grasp the significance of these bonds in holding atoms together and shaping the world around us.
Learn more: Covalent Bonds
2. Sulfuric Acid and Sugar Demonstration
Through this experiment, students can develop a deeper understanding of chemical properties, appreciate the power of chemical reactions, and ignite their passion for scientific exploration.
3. Make Hot Ice at Home
Making hot ice at home is a fascinating chemistry experiment that allows students to witness the captivating transformation of a liquid into a solid with a surprising twist.
4. Make a Bouncing Polymer Ball
This hands-on activity not only allows students to explore the fascinating properties of polymers but also encourages experimentation and creativity.
Learn more: Thought Co
5. Diffusion Watercolor Art
This experiment offers a wonderful opportunity for students to explore the properties of pigments, observe how they interact with water, and discover the mesmerizing patterns and textures that emerge.
Learn more: Diffusion Watercolor Art
6. Exploding Baggie
The exploding baggie experiment is a captivating and dynamic demonstration that students should engage in with caution and under the supervision of a qualified instructor.
Learn more: Exploding Baggie
7. Color Changing Chemistry Clock
This experiment not only engages students in the world of chemical kinetics but also introduces them to the concept of a chemical clock, where the color change acts as a timekeeping mechanism.
Learn more: Color Changing Chemistry Clock
8. Pipe Cleaner Crystal Trees
By adjusting the concentration of the Borax solution or experimenting with different pipe cleaner arrangements, students can customize their crystal trees and observe how it affects the growth patterns.
Learn more: Pipe Cleaner Crystal Trees
9. How To Make Ice Sculptures
Through this experiment, students gain a deeper understanding of the physical and chemical changes that occur when water freezes and melts.
Learn more: Ice Sculpture
10. How to Make Paper
Through this hands-on activity, students gain a deeper understanding of the properties of cellulose fibers and the transformative power of chemical reactions.
Learn more: How to Make Paper
11. Color Changing Chemistry
Color changing chemistry is an enchanting experiment that offers a captivating blend of science and art. Students should embark on this colorful journey to witness the mesmerizing transformations of chemicals and explore the principles of chemical reactions.
12. Gassy Banana
The gassy banana experiment is a fun and interactive way for students to explore the principles of chemical reactions and gas production.
Learn more: Gassy Banana
13. Gingerbread Man Chemistry Experiment
This hands-on activity not only introduces students to the concepts of chemical leavening and heat-induced reactions but also allows for creativity in decorating and personalizing their gingerbread creations.
Learn more: Gingerbread Man Chemistry Experiment
14. Make Amortentia Potion
While the love potion is fictional, this activity offers a chance to explore the art of potion-making and the chemistry behind it.
Learn more: How to Make Amortentia Potion
15. Strawberry DNA Extraction
This hands-on experiment offers a unique opportunity to observe DNA, the building blocks of life, up close and learn about its structure and properties.
16. Melting Snowman
The melting snowman experiment is a fun and whimsical activity that allows students to explore the principles of heat transfer and phase changes.
Learn more: Melting Snowman
17. Acid Base Cabbage Juice
The acid-base cabbage juice experiment is an engaging and colorful activity that allows students to explore the pH scale and the properties of acids and bases.
By extracting the purple pigment from red cabbage leaves and creating cabbage juice, students can use this natural indicator to identify and differentiate between acidic and basic substances.
Learn more: Acid Base Cabbage Juice
18. Magic Milk
The magic milk experiment is a mesmerizing and educational activity that allows students to explore the concepts of surface tension and chemical reactions.
By adding drops of different food colors to a dish of milk and then introducing a small amount of dish soap, students can witness a captivating display of swirling colors and patterns.
Learn more: Magic Milk
19. Melting Ice with Salt and Water
Through this hands-on activity, students can gain a deeper understanding of the science behind de-icing and how different substances can influence the physical properties of water.
Learn more: Melting Ice with Salt and Water
20. Barking Dog Chemistry Demonstration
The barking dog chemistry demonstration is an exciting and visually captivating experiment that showcases the principles of combustion and gas production.
21. How to Make Egg Geodes
Making egg geodes is a fascinating and creative chemistry experiment that students should try. By using common materials like eggshells, salt, and food coloring, students can create their own beautiful geode-like crystals.
Learn more: How to Make Egg Geodes
22. Make Sherbet
This experiment not only engages the taste buds but also introduces concepts of acidity, solubility, and the chemical reactions that occur when the sherbet comes into contact with moisture.
Learn more: Make Sherbet
23. Hatch a Baking Soda Dinosaur Egg
As the baking soda dries and hardens around the toy, it forms a “shell” resembling a dinosaur egg. To hatch the egg, students can pour vinegar onto the shell, causing a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas.
Learn more: Steam Powered Family
24. Chromatography Flowers
By analyzing the resulting patterns, students can gain insights into the different pigments present in flowers and the science behind their colors.
Learn more: Chromatography Flowers
25. Turn Juice Into Solid
Turning juice into a solid through gelification is an engaging and educational chemistry experiment that students should try. By exploring the transformation of a liquid into a solid, students can gain insights of chemical reactions and molecular interactions.
Learn more: Turn Juice into Solid
26. Bouncy Balls
Making bouncy balls allows students to explore the fascinating properties of polymers, such as their ability to stretch and rebound.
27. Make a Lemon Battery
Creating a lemon battery is a captivating and hands-on experiment that allows students to explore the fundamentals of electricity and chemical reactions.
28. Mentos and Soda Project
The Mentos and soda project is a thrilling and explosive experiment that students should try. By dropping Mentos candies into a bottle of carbonated soda, an exciting eruption occurs.
29. Alkali Metal in Water
The reaction of alkali metals with water is a fascinating and visually captivating chemistry demonstration.
30. Rainbow Flame
The rainbow flame experiment is a captivating and visually stunning chemistry demonstration that students should explore.
31. Sugar Yeast Experiment
This experiment not only introduces students to the concept of fermentation but also allows them to witness the effects of a living organism, yeast, on the sugar substrate.
32. The Thermite Reaction
The thermite reaction is a highly energetic and visually striking chemical reaction that students can explore with caution and under proper supervision.
This experiment showcases the principles of exothermic reactions, oxidation-reduction, and the high temperatures that can be achieved through chemical reactions.
33. Polishing Pennies
Polishing pennies is a simple and enjoyable chemistry experiment that allows students to explore the concepts of oxidation and cleaning methods.
34. Elephant Toothpaste
The elephant toothpaste experiment is a thrilling and visually captivating chemistry demonstration that students should try with caution and under the guidance of a knowledgeable instructor.
35. Magic Potion
Creating a magic potion is an exciting and imaginative activity that allows students to explore their creativity while learning about the principles of chemistry.
36. Color Changing Acid-Base Experiment
Through the color changing acid-base experiment, students can gain a deeper understanding of chemical reactions and the role of pH in our daily lives.
Learn more: Color Changing Acid-Base Experiment
37. Fill up a Balloon
Filling up a balloon is a simple and enjoyable physics experiment that demonstrates the properties of air pressure. By blowing air into a balloon, you can observe how the balloon expands and becomes inflated.
38. Jello and Vinegar
The combination of Jello and vinegar is a fascinating and tasty chemistry experiment that demonstrates the effects of acid on a gelatin-based substance.
Learn more: Jello and Vinegar
39. Vinegar and Steel Wool Reaction
This experiment not only provides a visual demonstration of the oxidation process but also introduces students to the concept of corrosion and the role of acids in accelerating the process.
Learn more: Vinegar and Steel Wool Reaction
40. Dancing Rice
The dancing rice experiment is a captivating and educational demonstration that showcases the principles of density and buoyancy.
By pouring a small amount of uncooked rice into a clear container filled with water, students can witness the rice grains moving and “dancing” in the water.
Learn more: Dancing Rice
41. Soil Testing Garden Science
Soil testing is a valuable and informative experiment that allows students to assess the composition and properties of soil.
By collecting soil samples from different locations and analyzing them, students can gain insights into the nutrient content, pH level, and texture of the soil.
Learn more: Soil Testing Garden Science
42. Heat Sensitive Color Changing Slime
Creating heat-sensitive color-changing slime is a captivating and playful chemistry experiment that students should try.
Learn more: Left Brain Craft Brain
43. Experimenting with Viscosity
Experimenting with viscosity is an engaging and hands-on activity that allows students to explore the flow properties of liquids.
Viscosity refers to a liquid’s resistance to flow, and this experiment enables students to investigate how different factors affect viscosity.
Learn more: Experimenting with Viscosity
44. Rock Candy Science
Rock candy science is a delightful and educational chemistry experiment that students should try. By growing their own rock candy crystals, students can learn about crystal formation and explore the principles of solubility and saturation.
Learn more: Rock Candy Science
45. Baking Soda vs Baking Powder
Baking soda and baking powder have distinct properties that influence the leavening process in different ways.
This hands-on experiment provides a practical understanding of how these ingredients interact with acids and moisture to create carbon dioxide gas.
46. Endothermic and Exothermic Reactions Experiment
The endothermic and exothermic reactions experiment is an exciting and informative chemistry exploration that students should try.
By observing and comparing the heat changes in different reactions, students can gain a deeper understanding of energy transfer and the concepts of endothermic and exothermic processes.
Learn more: Education.com
47. Diaper Chemistry
By dissecting a diaper and examining its components, students can uncover the chemical processes that make diapers so effective at absorbing and retaining liquids.
Learn more: Diaper Chemistry
48. Candle Chemical Reaction
The “Flame out” experiment is an intriguing and educational chemistry demonstration that students should try. By exploring the effects of a chemical reaction on a burning candle, students can witness the captivating moment when the flame is extinguished.
49. Make Curds and Whey
This experiment not only introduces students to the concept of acid-base reactions but also offers an opportunity to explore the science behind cheese-making.
Learn more: Tinkerlab
50. Grow Crystals Overnight
By creating a supersaturated solution using substances like epsom salt, sugar, or borax, students can observe the fascinating process of crystal growth. This experiment allows students to explore the principles of solubility, saturation, and nucleation.
Learn more: Grow Crystals Overnight
51. Measure Electrolytes in Sports Drinks
The “Measure Electrolytes in Sports Drinks” experiment is an informative and practical chemistry activity that students should try.
By using simple tools like a multimeter or conductivity probe, students can measure the electrical conductivity of different sports drinks to determine their electrolyte content.
52. Oxygen and Fire Experiment
The oxygen and fire experiment is a captivating and educational chemistry demonstration that students should try. By observing the effects of oxygen on a controlled fire, students can witness the essential role of oxygen in supporting combustion.
53. Electrolysis Of Water
The electrolysis of water experiment is a captivating and educational chemistry demonstration that students should try.
Learn more: Electrolysis Of Water
54. Expanding Ivory Soap
The expanding Ivory Soap experiment is a fun and interactive chemistry activity that students should try. By placing a bar of Ivory soap in a microwave, students can witness the remarkable expansion of the soap as it heats up.
Learn more: Little Bins Little Hands
55. Glowing Fireworks
This experiment not only introduces students to the principles of pyrotechnics and combustion but also encourages observation, critical thinking, and an appreciation for the physics and chemistry behind.
Learn more: Glowing Fireworks
56. Colorful Polymer Chemistry
Colorful polymer chemistry is an exciting and vibrant experiment that students should try to explore polymers and colorants.
By combining different types of polymers with various colorants, such as food coloring or pigments, students can create a kaleidoscope of colors in their polymer creations.
Learn more: Colorful Polymer Chemistry
57. Sulfur Hexafluoride- Deep Voice Gas
This experiment provides a firsthand experience of how the density and composition of gases can influence sound transmission.
It encourages scientific curiosity, observation, and a sense of wonder as students witness the surprising transformation of their voices.
58. Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream
Liquid nitrogen ice cream is a thrilling and delicious chemistry experiment that students should try. By combining cream, sugar, and flavorings with liquid nitrogen, students can create ice cream with a unique and creamy texture.
59. White Smoke Chemistry Demonstration
The White Smoke Chemistry Demonstration provides an engaging and visually captivating experience for students to explore chemical reactions and gases. By combining hydrochloric acid and ammonia solutions, students can witness the mesmerizing formation of white smoke.
60. Nitrogen Triiodide Chemistry Demonstration
The nitrogen triiodide chemistry demonstration is a remarkable and attention-grabbing experiment that students should try under the guidance of a knowledgeable instructor.
By reacting iodine crystals with concentrated ammonia, students can precipitate nitrogen triiodide (NI3), a highly sensitive compound.
61. Make a Plastic- Milk And Vinegar Reaction Experiment
Through the “Make a Plastic – Milk and Vinegar Reaction” experiment, students can gain a deeper understanding of the chemistry behind plastics, environmental sustainability, and the potential of biodegradable materials.
Learn more: Rookie Parenting
62. Eno and Water Experiment
This experiment not only introduces students to acid-base reactions but also engages their senses as they witness the visible and audible effects of the reaction.
63. The Eternal Kettle Experiment
By filling a kettle with alcohol and igniting it, students can investigate the behavior of the alcohol flame and its sustainability.
64. Coke and Chlorine Bombs
Engaging in this experiment allows students to experience the wonders of chemistry firsthand, making it an ideal choice to ignite their curiosity and passion for scientific exploration.
65. Set your Hand on Fire
This experiment showcases the fascinating nature of combustion and the science behind fire.
By carefully following proper procedures and safety guidelines, students can witness firsthand how the sanitizer’s high alcohol content interacts with an open flame, resulting in a brief but captivating display of controlled combustion.
66. Instant Ice Experiments
The Instant Ice Experiment offers an engaging and captivating opportunity for students to explore the wonders of chemistry and phase changes.
By using simple household ingredients, students can witness the fascinating phenomenon of rapid ice formation in just a matter of seconds.
67. Coke Cans in Acid and Base
Engaging in this experiment allows students to gain a deeper understanding of the chemical properties of substances and the importance of safety protocols in scientific investigations.
68. Color Changing Invisible Ink
The Color Changing Invisible Ink experiment offers an intriguing and fun opportunity for students to explore chemistry and learn about the concept of chemical reactions.
Learn more: Research Parent
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72 Easy Science Experiments Using Materials You Already Have On Hand
Because science doesn’t have to be complicated.
If there is one thing that is guaranteed to get your students excited, it’s a good science experiment! While some experiments require expensive lab equipment or dangerous chemicals, there are plenty of cool projects you can do with regular household items. We’ve rounded up a big collection of easy science experiments that anybody can try, and kids are going to love them!
Easy Chemistry Science Experiments
Easy physics science experiments, easy biology and environmental science experiments, easy engineering experiments and stem challenges.
1. Taste the Rainbow
Teach your students about diffusion while creating a beautiful and tasty rainbow! Tip: Have extra Skittles on hand so your class can eat a few!
Learn more: Skittles Diffusion
2. Crystallize sweet treats
Crystal science experiments teach kids about supersaturated solutions. This one is easy to do at home, and the results are absolutely delicious!
Learn more: Candy Crystals
3. Make a volcano erupt
This classic experiment demonstrates a chemical reaction between baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (acetic acid), which produces carbon dioxide gas, water, and sodium acetate.
Learn more: Best Volcano Experiments
4. Make elephant toothpaste
This fun project uses yeast and a hydrogen peroxide solution to create overflowing “elephant toothpaste.” Tip: Add an extra fun layer by having kids create toothpaste wrappers for plastic bottles.
5. Blow the biggest bubbles you can
Add a few simple ingredients to dish soap solution to create the largest bubbles you’ve ever seen! Kids learn about surface tension as they engineer these bubble-blowing wands.
Learn more: Giant Soap Bubbles
6. Demonstrate the “magic” leakproof bag
All you need is a zip-top plastic bag, sharp pencils, and water to blow your kids’ minds. Once they’re suitably impressed, teach them how the “trick” works by explaining the chemistry of polymers.
Learn more: Leakproof Bag
7. Use apple slices to learn about oxidation
Have students make predictions about what will happen to apple slices when immersed in different liquids, then put those predictions to the test. Have them record their observations.
Learn more: Apple Oxidation
8. Float a marker man
Their eyes will pop out of their heads when you “levitate” a stick figure right off the table! This experiment works due to the insolubility of dry-erase marker ink in water, combined with the lighter density of the ink.
Learn more: Floating Marker Man
9. Discover density with hot and cold water
There are a lot of easy science experiments you can do with density. This one is extremely simple, involving only hot and cold water and food coloring, but the visuals make it appealing and fun.
Learn more: Layered Water
10. Layer more liquids
This density demo is a little more complicated, but the effects are spectacular. Slowly layer liquids like honey, dish soap, water, and rubbing alcohol in a glass. Kids will be amazed when the liquids float one on top of the other like magic (except it is really science).
Learn more: Layered Liquids
11. Grow a carbon sugar snake
Easy science experiments can still have impressive results! This eye-popping chemical reaction demonstration only requires simple supplies like sugar, baking soda, and sand.
Learn more: Carbon Sugar Snake
12. Mix up some slime
Tell kids you’re going to make slime at home, and watch their eyes light up! There are a variety of ways to make slime, so try a few different recipes to find the one you like best.
13. Make homemade bouncy balls
These homemade bouncy balls are easy to make since all you need is glue, food coloring, borax powder, cornstarch, and warm water. You’ll want to store them inside a container like a plastic egg because they will flatten out over time.
Learn more: Make Your Own Bouncy Balls
14. Create eggshell chalk
Eggshells contain calcium, the same material that makes chalk. Grind them up and mix them with flour, water, and food coloring to make your very own sidewalk chalk.
Learn more: Eggshell Chalk
15. Make naked eggs
This is so cool! Use vinegar to dissolve the calcium carbonate in an eggshell to discover the membrane underneath that holds the egg together. Then, use the “naked” egg for another easy science experiment that demonstrates osmosis .
Learn more: Naked Egg Experiment
16. Turn milk into plastic
This sounds a lot more complicated than it is, but don’t be afraid to give it a try. Use simple kitchen supplies to create plastic polymers from plain old milk. Sculpt them into cool shapes when you’re done!
17. Test pH using cabbage
Teach kids about acids and bases without needing pH test strips! Simply boil some red cabbage and use the resulting water to test various substances—acids turn red and bases turn green.
Learn more: Cabbage pH
18. Clean some old coins
Use common household items to make old oxidized coins clean and shiny again in this simple chemistry experiment. Ask kids to predict (hypothesize) which will work best, then expand the learning by doing some research to explain the results.
Learn more: Cleaning Coins
19. Pull an egg into a bottle
This classic easy science experiment never fails to delight. Use the power of air pressure to suck a hard-boiled egg into a jar, no hands required.
Learn more: Egg in a Bottle
20. Blow up a balloon (without blowing)
Chances are good you probably did easy science experiments like this when you were in school. The baking soda and vinegar balloon experiment demonstrates the reactions between acids and bases when you fill a bottle with vinegar and a balloon with baking soda.
21 Assemble a DIY lava lamp
This 1970s trend is back—as an easy science experiment! This activity combines acid-base reactions with density for a totally groovy result.
22. Explore how sugary drinks affect teeth
The calcium content of eggshells makes them a great stand-in for teeth. Use eggs to explore how soda and juice can stain teeth and wear down the enamel. Expand your learning by trying different toothpaste-and-toothbrush combinations to see how effective they are.
Learn more: Sugar and Teeth Experiment
23. Mummify a hot dog
If your kids are fascinated by the Egyptians, they’ll love learning to mummify a hot dog! No need for canopic jars , just grab some baking soda and get started.
24. Extinguish flames with carbon dioxide
This is a fiery twist on acid-base experiments. Light a candle and talk about what fire needs in order to survive. Then, create an acid-base reaction and “pour” the carbon dioxide to extinguish the flame. The CO2 gas acts like a liquid, suffocating the fire.
25. Send secret messages with invisible ink
Turn your kids into secret agents! Write messages with a paintbrush dipped in lemon juice, then hold the paper over a heat source and watch the invisible become visible as oxidation goes to work.
Learn more: Invisible Ink
26. Create dancing popcorn
This is a fun version of the classic baking soda and vinegar experiment, perfect for the younger crowd. The bubbly mixture causes popcorn to dance around in the water.
27. Shoot a soda geyser sky-high
You’ve always wondered if this really works, so it’s time to find out for yourself! Kids will marvel at the chemical reaction that sends diet soda shooting high in the air when Mentos are added.
Learn more: Soda Explosion
28. Send a teabag flying
Hot air rises, and this experiment can prove it! You’ll want to supervise kids with fire, of course. For more safety, try this one outside.
Learn more: Flying Tea Bags
29. Create magic milk
This fun and easy science experiment demonstrates principles related to surface tension, molecular interactions, and fluid dynamics.
Learn more: Magic Milk Experiment
30. Watch the water rise
Learn about Charles’s Law with this simple experiment. As the candle burns, using up oxygen and heating the air in the glass, the water rises as if by magic.
Learn more: Rising Water
31. Learn about capillary action
Kids will be amazed as they watch the colored water move from glass to glass, and you’ll love the easy and inexpensive setup. Gather some water, paper towels, and food coloring to teach the scientific magic of capillary action.
Learn more: Capillary Action
32. Give a balloon a beard
Equally educational and fun, this experiment will teach kids about static electricity using everyday materials. Kids will undoubtedly get a kick out of creating beards on their balloon person!
Learn more: Static Electricity
33. Find your way with a DIY compass
Here’s an old classic that never fails to impress. Magnetize a needle, float it on the water’s surface, and it will always point north.
Learn more: DIY Compass
34. Crush a can using air pressure
Sure, it’s easy to crush a soda can with your bare hands, but what if you could do it without touching it at all? That’s the power of air pressure!
35. Tell time using the sun
While people use clocks or even phones to tell time today, there was a time when a sundial was the best means to do that. Kids will certainly get a kick out of creating their own sundials using everyday materials like cardboard and pencils.
Learn more: Make Your Own Sundial
36. Launch a balloon rocket
Grab balloons, string, straws, and tape, and launch rockets to learn about the laws of motion.
37. Make sparks with steel wool
All you need is steel wool and a 9-volt battery to perform this science demo that’s bound to make their eyes light up! Kids learn about chain reactions, chemical changes, and more.
Learn more: Steel Wool Electricity
38. Levitate a Ping-Pong ball
Kids will get a kick out of this experiment, which is really all about Bernoulli’s principle. You only need plastic bottles, bendy straws, and Ping-Pong balls to make the science magic happen.
39. Whip up a tornado in a bottle
There are plenty of versions of this classic experiment out there, but we love this one because it sparkles! Kids learn about a vortex and what it takes to create one.
Learn more: Tornado in a Bottle
40. Monitor air pressure with a DIY barometer
This simple but effective DIY science project teaches kids about air pressure and meteorology. They’ll have fun tracking and predicting the weather with their very own barometer.
Learn more: DIY Barometer
41. Peer through an ice magnifying glass
Students will certainly get a thrill out of seeing how an everyday object like a piece of ice can be used as a magnifying glass. Be sure to use purified or distilled water since tap water will have impurities in it that will cause distortion.
Learn more: Ice Magnifying Glass
42. String up some sticky ice
Can you lift an ice cube using just a piece of string? This quick experiment teaches you how. Use a little salt to melt the ice and then refreeze the ice with the string attached.
Learn more: Sticky Ice
43. “Flip” a drawing with water
Light refraction causes some really cool effects, and there are multiple easy science experiments you can do with it. This one uses refraction to “flip” a drawing; you can also try the famous “disappearing penny” trick .
Learn more: Light Refraction With Water
44. Color some flowers
We love how simple this project is to re-create since all you’ll need are some white carnations, food coloring, glasses, and water. The end result is just so beautiful!
45. Use glitter to fight germs
Everyone knows that glitter is just like germs—it gets everywhere and is so hard to get rid of! Use that to your advantage and show kids how soap fights glitter and germs.
Learn more: Glitter Germs
46. Re-create the water cycle in a bag
You can do so many easy science experiments with a simple zip-top bag. Fill one partway with water and set it on a sunny windowsill to see how the water evaporates up and eventually “rains” down.
Learn more: Water Cycle
47. Learn about plant transpiration
Your backyard is a terrific place for easy science experiments. Grab a plastic bag and rubber band to learn how plants get rid of excess water they don’t need, a process known as transpiration.
Learn more: Plant Transpiration
48. Clean up an oil spill
Before conducting this experiment, teach your students about engineers who solve environmental problems like oil spills. Then, have your students use provided materials to clean the oil spill from their oceans.
Learn more: Oil Spill
49. Construct a pair of model lungs
Kids get a better understanding of the respiratory system when they build model lungs using a plastic water bottle and some balloons. You can modify the experiment to demonstrate the effects of smoking too.
Learn more: Model Lungs
50. Experiment with limestone rocks
Kids love to collect rocks, and there are plenty of easy science experiments you can do with them. In this one, pour vinegar over a rock to see if it bubbles. If it does, you’ve found limestone!
Learn more: Limestone Experiments
51. Turn a bottle into a rain gauge
All you need is a plastic bottle, a ruler, and a permanent marker to make your own rain gauge. Monitor your measurements and see how they stack up against meteorology reports in your area.
Learn more: DIY Rain Gauge
52. Build up towel mountains
This clever demonstration helps kids understand how some landforms are created. Use layers of towels to represent rock layers and boxes for continents. Then pu-u-u-sh and see what happens!
Learn more: Towel Mountains
53. Take a play dough core sample
Learn about the layers of the earth by building them out of Play-Doh, then take a core sample with a straw. ( Love Play-Doh? Get more learning ideas here. )
Learn more: Play Dough Core Sampling
54. Project the stars on your ceiling
Use the video lesson in the link below to learn why stars are only visible at night. Then create a DIY star projector to explore the concept hands-on.
Learn more: DIY Star Projector
55. Make it rain
Use shaving cream and food coloring to simulate clouds and rain. This is an easy science experiment little ones will beg to do over and over.
Learn more: Shaving Cream Rain
56. Blow up your fingerprint
This is such a cool (and easy!) way to look at fingerprint patterns. Inflate a balloon a bit, use some ink to put a fingerprint on it, then blow it up big to see your fingerprint in detail.
57. Snack on a DNA model
Twizzlers, gumdrops, and a few toothpicks are all you need to make this super-fun (and yummy!) DNA model.
Learn more: Edible DNA Model
58. Dissect a flower
Take a nature walk and find a flower or two. Then bring them home and take them apart to discover all the different parts of flowers.
59. Craft smartphone speakers
No Bluetooth speaker? No problem! Put together your own from paper cups and toilet paper tubes.
Learn more: Smartphone Speakers
60. Race a balloon-powered car
Kids will be amazed when they learn they can put together this awesome racer using cardboard and bottle-cap wheels. The balloon-powered “engine” is so much fun too.
Learn more: Balloon-Powered Car
61. Build a Ferris wheel
You’ve probably ridden on a Ferris wheel, but can you build one? Stock up on wood craft sticks and find out! Play around with different designs to see which one works best.
Learn more: Craft Stick Ferris Wheel
62. Design a phone stand
There are lots of ways to craft a DIY phone stand, which makes this a perfect creative-thinking STEM challenge.
63. Conduct an egg drop
Put all their engineering skills to the test with an egg drop! Challenge kids to build a container from stuff they find around the house that will protect an egg from a long fall (this is especially fun to do from upper-story windows).
Learn more: Egg Drop Challenge Ideas
64. Engineer a drinking-straw roller coaster
STEM challenges are always a hit with kids. We love this one, which only requires basic supplies like drinking straws.
Learn more: Straw Roller Coaster
65. Build a solar oven
Explore the power of the sun when you build your own solar ovens and use them to cook some yummy treats. This experiment takes a little more time and effort, but the results are always impressive. The link below has complete instructions.
Learn more: Solar Oven
66. Build a Da Vinci bridge
There are plenty of bridge-building experiments out there, but this one is unique. It’s inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s 500-year-old self-supporting wooden bridge. Learn how to build it at the link, and expand your learning by exploring more about Da Vinci himself.
Learn more: Da Vinci Bridge
67. Step through an index card
This is one easy science experiment that never fails to astonish. With carefully placed scissor cuts on an index card, you can make a loop large enough to fit a (small) human body through! Kids will be wowed as they learn about surface area.
68. Stand on a pile of paper cups
Combine physics and engineering and challenge kids to create a paper cup structure that can support their weight. This is a cool project for aspiring architects.
Learn more: Paper Cup Stack
69. Test out parachutes
Gather a variety of materials (try tissues, handkerchiefs, plastic bags, etc.) and see which ones make the best parachutes. You can also find out how they’re affected by windy days or find out which ones work in the rain.
Learn more: Parachute Drop
70. Recycle newspapers into an engineering challenge
It’s amazing how a stack of newspapers can spark such creative engineering. Challenge kids to build a tower, support a book, or even build a chair using only newspaper and tape!
Learn more: Newspaper STEM Challenge
71. Use rubber bands to sound out acoustics
Explore the ways that sound waves are affected by what’s around them using a simple rubber band “guitar.” (Kids absolutely love playing with these!)
Learn more: Rubber Band Guitar
72. Assemble a better umbrella
Challenge students to engineer the best possible umbrella from various household supplies. Encourage them to plan, draw blueprints, and test their creations using the scientific method.
Learn more: Umbrella STEM Challenge
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Easy Chemistry Experiments for Kids
October 19, 2021 By Emma Vanstone 1 Comment
When I think back to my own childhood and school days, I don’t remember any chemistry experiments until secondary school, which is a shame because there are so many wonderfully visual easy chemistry experiments for kids that can be done at home or in school with young children.
I’ve put together a collection of my favourite examples, do let us know if you try any.
Please remember young children should be supervised at all times.
Chemistry Experiments for Kids in the Kitchen
Exploding sandwich bags .
I did struggle a little when we tried this as the reaction happens so fast, but Steve Spangler has a nifty method where he traps the vinegar in a second smaller bag, which you then have to burst to get the reaction started.
Inspiration laboratories add a twist by adding some colour and making firework pictures at the same time.
Blow Up a Balloon
This is a super simple demonstration or experiment that has never failed me, and all you need is a container with a small neck, a balloon and either an alka seltzer or an effervescent vitamin tablet. The alka seltzer or vitamin tablet reacts with water to release bubbles of carbon dioxide filling the jar and then blowing up the balloon.
Blow up a balloon with alka seltzer
Find out how to blow up a balloon with lemon juice and baking soda.
Colourful Milk
Make a lovely, colourful display using milk, food colouring and vinegar.
Oil, Food Colouring and Water Exploration Table
My oil, water and food colouring exploration table is brilliant for even very young children. For older children, try a more structured approach, they could measure the amount of vinegar and baking soda needed to make the reaction spill over the top of the beaker or try dropping tiny amounts of coloured water into the oil.
Density Rainbow Jar
Learn about the tricky concept of density and make a beautiful demonstration density jar .
Simple Density Jar
If you don’t want to make as many layers as we have, why not try this smaller version and try to find an object to float on each layer?
Lemon Volcanoes
This lemon volcano from Babble Dabble Do is a great alternative to the traditional volcano and is handy as the lemon already contains acid.
Clean coins
Did you know you can clean coins with vinegar ?
Colourful Chemistry Experiments
Make your own ph indicator.
Test the pH of vinegar and baking soda with a red cabbage indicator . What do you think might happen if you blow into the indicator?
Dissolving Skittles
Watching the colour dissolve from skittles or M & Ms dissolve into water is a lovely, quick, visual activity.
Chemistry Experiments for Kids Outside
Giant bubbles.
Who doesn’t love a giant bubble ? Red Ted Art makes bubble making look easy in this great video. Remember, the mixture gets better the longer you leave it, so allow plenty of time.
Make a Square Bubble
All you need to make a square bubble is a square frame. If you don’t have plastic pieces to use, pipe cleaners also work well.
Coke and Mento Reaction
The infamous coke and mento reaction is super easy and very impressive to watch. Try comparing the size of the geyser using diet and full sugar cola or using different types of fizzy drinks.
Can you design something which allows the mentos to drop in as soon as you remove the lid?
Elephants Toothpaste
Fun at Home with Kids makes elephants toothpaste look super simple, but do be careful with the hydrogen peroxide and take appropriate precautions.
Film Canister Rockets
Film canister rockets are easy, inexpensive and great fun. All you need is a film canister, an effervescent vitamin tablet and some water. Experiment with different amounts of water and tablets to find the most explosive combination.
Make a Volcano
Find out how to make a volcano erupt with sand, snow or papier mache. A baking soda volcano is a brilliant classic chemistry experiment every kid should try at least once!
Chemistry Separation Methods
Bicycle centrifuge.
Did you know you can use bike wheels as a very basic centrifuge ?
Stone and Gravel Filter
Learn about filters by making a filter with stones , gravel and sand.
Filter Paper Chromatography
Take on the role of a detective with some fun filter paper chromatography .
Can you think of any more amazing chemistry experiments for kids?
Last Updated on April 13, 2023 by Emma Vanstone
Safety Notice
Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.
These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.
Reader Interactions
June 15, 2021 at 5:04 pm
these ideas are great i picked two to do at my moms house the skittles in water and coke with mentos my mom might not let me do the coke bootle and mentos but she might let me do the skittles i will let you know if it works if it does i give this website a 10/10
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The Ultimate Guide to Kids Chemistry - Fun Experiments & Activities for Elementary Schoolers
Who said chemistry can’t be fun and accessible for kids? With engaging experiments and interactive activities, children can discover the fascinating world of chemical reactions and processes.
MEL Science
Who said chemistry can’t be fun and accessible for kids? With engaging experiments and interactive activities, children can discover the fascinating world of chemical reactions and processes. Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to kids chemistry, where we’ll explore various hands-on experiments, online resources, and recommended books to spark their curiosity and love for chemistry!
Key Takeaways
- Explore chemistry with exciting experiments like making a baking soda volcano and fizzy lemonade!
- Create captivating displays of swirling colors with Magic Milk & make homemade slime for an educational experience.
- Discover two fantastic books to spark curiosity & explore the periodic table - The Elements Book by DK & Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction!
Fun Chemistry Experiments for Kids
Chemistry experiments offer an engaging platform for kids to delve into the core science of chemistry. Through hands-on activities, children can witness chemical reactions, acids and bases, and polymers come to life. Imagine the excitement of creating a baking soda volcano, watching borax crystals form, or mixing colors in a magic milk experiment! These fun chemistry experiments not only captivate young minds, but also help them develop problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and creativity.
So let’s delve into a few cool chemistry experiments that will undoubtedly spark your child’s interest and foster a love for science. Up next, we’ll examine:
- Fizzy lemonade
- Homemade slime
- Invisible ink messages
All intriguing activities for budding scientists in major sciences and other major sciences!
Fizzy Lemonade
Fizzy lemonade is a fantastic way to teach kids about chemical reactions while enjoying a tasty treat. By mixing sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda, citric acid, and sugar, we create a delightful fizzy beverage. The chemical reaction between baking soda and citric acid produces carbon dioxide gas, which gives lemonade its fizz.
As kids prepare and enjoy their fizzy lemonade, they’ll learn about chemical reactions and carbon dioxide production in an exciting, hands-on manner. This experiment is not only enjoyable, but also secure and straightforward to execute at home or in the classroom. It’s perfect for younger kids who are starting to explore chemistry, as well as older children who want to dive deeper into understanding the science behind everyday reactions.
Magic milk serves as another captivating experiment intertwining art and science. By mixing milk, food coloring, and dish soap, we create a mesmerizing display of swirling colors. As the dish soap is added to the milk, it breaks down the fat molecules, causing the food coloring to radiate out and mix. The result is a stunning, colorful spectacle that will leave kids in awe.
Not only does magic milk allow children to discover the reaction between milk and dish soap, but it also encourages them to explore color mixing and the artistic side of chemistry. This exciting experiment is perfect for younger kids who are just beginning to experience the world of chemical reactions and the beauty that lies within.
Homemade Slime
Kids love playing with slime, and making it at home is an excellent way to teach them about polymers and non-Newtonian fluids. By combining simple ingredients like glue, borax, and water, kids can create their own homemade slime that is not only entertaining but also educational. The glue in the slime is a polymer, and when mixed with borax or liquid starch, it forms a non-Newtonian fluid, which behaves differently than a regular liquid.
The homemade slime experiment allows kids to experiment with different amounts of glue and borax to achieve various consistencies. They can also add different colors of food coloring or glitter to make their slime more interesting and personalized. This fun chemistry experiment is perfect for children of all ages, providing an engaging and hands-on learning experience.
Invisible Ink Messages
Invisible ink messages are a thrilling way to teach kids about oxidation and secret messages. Using lemon juice and heat, children can create their own invisible ink and reveal it using a heat source. The steps to create and reveal the message are as follows:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice into a small bowl.
- Use a cotton swab or paintbrush to write a message on a piece of paper using the lemon juice.
- Allow the lemon juice to dry completely.
- To reveal the message, hold the paper close to a heat source, such as a light bulb or candle flame.
- As the lemon juice is heated, it oxidizes and turns brown, making the message visible.
This science experiment not only fascinates children, but also demonstrates important chemical processes, such as the showcased reaction, in an engaging way.
Creating invisible ink messages is an excellent activity for kids who are interested in chemistry and want to explore the world of secret codes and messages. It’s a fun and educational experiment that kids of all ages can enjoy, sparking their curiosity and love for chemistry.
Chemistry Sets & Subscriptions for Kids
Beyond singular experiments, chemistry sets and subscriptions offer a holistic and intriguing approach for kids to explore the realm of chemistry. These kits offer:
- Hands-on experiments
- Learning materials
- Help children understand the basics of chemistry
- Develop problem-solving skills
- Foster critical thinking
- Encourage creativity
An example of such a chemistry set is the MEL Science Chemistry Kits , which we’ll delve into in the following section.
MEL Science Chemistry Kits
MEL Science Chemistry Kits are educational kits designed to help children discover and explore chemistry through hands-on experiments. Each kit includes:
- Materials and instructions for conducting various experiments
- Opportunities to uncover different chemical reactions and concepts
- A fun and engaging learning experience The kits are suitable for elementary schoolers and provide a safe and interactive way to learn about chemistry.
These chemistry kits offer a wide range of experiments, from making a lava lamp to creating a rainbow in a jar, and even replicating a baking soda volcano. By providing monthly subscriptions with engaging experiments, detailed instructions, and educational materials, MEL Science Chemistry Kits inspire children to dive deeper into the world of chemistry and foster a love for science.
Online Resources for Learning Chemistry
The internet offers a wealth of online resources for learning chemistry, including:
- Interactive periodic tables
- Engaging video lessons
- Virtual labs and simulations
- Online textbooks and study guides
- Chemistry games and quizzes
These resources provide a convenient and accessible way for kids to explore the world of chemistry, the central science, at their own pace, making it easier for them to understand complex concepts and develop a strong foundation in the subject.
Next, we’ll examine popular online resources for learning chemistry, which include interactive periodic tables, Bill Nye the Science Guy videos, and Khan Academy chemistry lessons.
Interactive Periodic Table
Interactive periodic tables provide a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about elements and their properties. These digital tools allow users to:
- Explore and interact with the elements in various ways, such as clicking on an element to view its properties
- Search for specific elements
- Access additional information and resources related to each element
Not only do interactive periodic tables help kids learn about the elements in a more engaging and enjoyable manner, but they also allow them to develop a deeper understanding of the periodic table’s structure and organization. With a wealth of information and interactive features at their fingertips, kids can truly immerse themselves in the world of chemistry and become more familiar with the elements that make up our world.
Bill Nye the Science Guy Videos
Bill Nye the Science Guy videos offer entertaining and educational chemistry lessons for kids, covering a wide range of topics. With his charismatic personality and passion for science, Bill Nye captivates young audiences and makes learning about chemistry fun and engaging. Each video explores a specific scientific concept through amazing experiments, demonstrations, and explanations, making complex ideas more accessible to children.
These videos are an excellent resource for kids who want to learn more about chemistry in a fun and engaging way. With a variety of topics covered, from chemical reactions to the properties of elements, Bill Nye the Science Guy videos provide an entertaining and informative introduction to the world of chemistry.
Khan Academy Chemistry Lessons
Khan Academy provides comprehensive chemistry lessons for kids, featuring easy-to-understand explanations and interactive exercises. Covering a wide range of topics, from atomic structure to chemical reactions and stoichiometry, Khan Academy offers an extensive library of educational resources designed to help students of all ages master the fundamentals of chemistry.
These chemistry lessons are accessible to learners of all ages and skill levels, making it an excellent resource for kids who want to delve deeper into the subject. With video tutorials, practice exercises, and quizzes, Khan Academy provides a well-rounded and engaging learning experience that encourages children to explore the world of chemistry and develop a strong foundation in the subject.
Hands-On Chemistry Activities for Younger Kids
While many chemistry experiments and resources are suitable for older kids, it’s particularly beneficial to engage younger children in hands-on activities tailored to their age group. These activities help them develop a love for chemistry from an early age and lay the foundation for more advanced learning in the future.
Moving forward, we’ll journey through some hands-on chemistry activities designed specifically for younger kids, like color-changing flowers, ice cube painting, and homemade play dough, all of which can be integrated into everyday life as engaging lesson plans.
Color Changing Flowers
Color-changing flowers are an exciting way to teach kids about capillary action and color mixing. By placing white flowers in water with food coloring, they can observe how the flower petals change color as the colored water is absorbed. The science behind this fascinating phenomenon is capillary action, which is the movement of liquid through a porous material.
This experiment not only sparks children’s curiosity and interest in chemistry, but also allows them to:
- Explore color mixing
- Explore the properties of different materials
- Experiment with different types of food coloring and observe the effects on the flower petals
This further deepens their understanding of color mixing and capillary action.
Ice Cube Painting
Ice cube painting is a unique activity that combines art and science, allowing kids to explore color mixing and the properties of water as it changes states. By creating ice cube paints with water and food coloring, children can paint with the melting ice cubes and observe how the colors mix and blend on the paper or canvas.
Not only is this activity a fun and creative way for kids to learn about color mixing, but it also teaches them about the properties of water as it transitions from a solid to a liquid state. Ice cube painting is an engaging and hands-on chemistry activity that younger kids will love, sparking their curiosity and interest in the subject.
Homemade Playdough
Making homemade play dough is a fun and educational activity that teaches kids about chemical reactions and the properties of different materials. Using simple kitchen ingredients like:
- cream of tartar
- vegetable oil
Children can create their own play dough while learning about the chemical reaction that occurs when these ingredients are mixed.
Not only is homemade play dough an entertaining activity for younger kids, but it also provides an opportunity for them to explore the properties of different materials and learn about chemical reactions in a hands-on manner. With endless possibilities for customization and play, homemade play dough is a fantastic chemistry activity for children of all ages.
Recommended Chemistry Books for Kids
In addition to hands-on experiments and online resources, there are many excellent chemistry books available for kids that provide engaging and informative content on various chemistry concepts. These books can help children solidify their understanding of the subject and inspire them to explore further.
Next, we’ll review two highly acclaimed chemistry books for kids: The Elements Book by DK and Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction! by Dan Green.
The Elements Book by DK
The Elements Book by DK is a visually appealing and informative guide to the periodic table, perfect for kids interested in chemistry. With stunning photographs and illustrations, this comprehensive guide provides detailed information about each element, including:
- Atomic number
- Atomic weight
Making it an invaluable resource for chemistry students, called chemists, and anyone interested in chemistry.
Not only is The Elements Book by DK a valuable educational tool, but its captivating visuals also make it an enjoyable read for kids, inspiring them to learn more about the elements and their characteristics. This book is an excellent addition to any young chemist’s library, sparking curiosity and love for the subject.
Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction! by Dan Green
Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction! Dan Green is another fantastic book that provides an engaging and accessible introduction to chemistry concepts for kids. With fun illustrations and easy-to-understand explanations, this book covers a wide range of topics, from atomic structure to chemical reactions, making it a perfect resource for young learners.
Kids will undoubtedly enjoy the entertaining approach to chemistry presented in this book, making it an excellent starting point for children who are new to the subject. By breaking down complex ideas into digestible and engaging content, Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction! Not only educates but also captivates young readers, fostering a love for chemistry and encouraging further exploration.
In conclusion, there are numerous fun chemistry experiments, activities, and resources available to engage kids in the fascinating world of chemistry. From fizzy lemonade and magic milk to homemade slime and invisible ink messages, hands-on experiments provide an excellent opportunity for children to learn and explore chemistry concepts. Online resources like interactive periodic tables and engaging video lessons, as well as recommended chemistry books, further support their learning journey. By engaging kids in these exciting activities and resources, we can inspire a new generation of budding chemists who will carry their love for chemistry throughout their lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chemistry explained to kids.
Chemistry is the field of science that studies the properties of matter and how it interacts with energy. It’s a physical science connected to physics, and looks at how matter changes and transforms to create the universe we know.
Through chemistry, we learn about the make-up of everything and how they behave. Exciting!
At what age do kids learn chemistry?
At around 6th grade, kids can start to learn the basics of chemistry, such as the periodic table of elements.
By 10th grade in high school, they will be exploring all the fundamentals of chemistry in more detail.
What are some chemistry experiments for kids?
Let your kids explore chemistry with exciting experiments like Milk Painting, Citrus Battery, Elephant Toothpaste, Plastic Milk and Curds & Whey Experiment, Chemistry clock, Blow Balloons with yeast and sugar, Lemon Volcano, and the Colorful Cabbage Juice Science Experiment and Acid Base Experiment with Cabbage!
These experiments are fun and educational, and can help your kids learn about the basics of chemistry. They can explore the different reactions that occur when different substances are combined, and learn about the properties of acids and bases. They can also learn about the different states of matter and how they interact with each other. With these experiments, your kids can have a great time while learning about chemistry.
What are the 5 types of chemical reactions for kids?
Learning about chemical reactions has never been easier for kids! There are five basic categories of reactions they need to know: synthesis, decomposition, single replacement, double replacement and combustion.
A single displacement reaction is a type of single replacement reaction where one element is replaced by another in a compound. With this knowledge, students will be well on their way to mastering chemical reactions!
Are chemistry sets and subscriptions safe for kids to use?
Yes, chemistry sets and subscriptions are designed with safety in mind, offering interactive experiences for kids through hands-on experiments and learning materials.
Sign up for more like this.
Babble Dabble Do
50 Chemistry Projects That Will Amaze Kids!
February 26, 2019 by Ana Dziengel 5 Comments
Chemistry projects feel like magic , do they not? If you think about some of your favorite science projects, the ones you love to try with your kids or the ones that amazed YOU as a kid, more likely than not most of them involved chemistry.
Now I know a lot of us associate chemistry with lab coats, beakers and specialty ingredients but the reality is there are so many chemistry projects you can do using very simple, easy to find ingredients, often found in your own pantry. And since these types of simple chemistry projects use relatively safe ingredients, they are perfect to try with younger kids, ie. preschool and elementary aged children! In fact I think it’s so important for young kids to have a positive association with chemistry from a young age that fosters a love of this branch of science.
When most children are finally exposed to chemistry in school, it is at the high school level where the subject turns complex quickly; hopefully giving kids a chance to have fun at young age mixing up concoctions and watching chemical reactions will help carry their interest through the more complicated days of study ahead.
This post is a GIANT compilation of chemistry projects that would be great for the science fair, classroom demos, or at home science with your kids.
Before we get started let’s talk a little bit about what chemistry is and for parents I also included a section covering How to Do Chemistry Projects at Home. If you are a classroom teacher you can skip this section and head right to the projects here.
What is chemistry?
Chemistry is the branch of science that studies matter (anything that has mass and takes up space) and its properties, and how different substances (especially molecules and their atoms) interact, combine, and change to form new substances.
Here are some important definitions to know when working on chemistry projects:
- Element A substance that cannot be separated into any further substances. There are 120 known elements.
- Atom The smallest particle of an element
- Molecule Groups of atoms held together by a chemical bond.
- Ion An atom or molecule that has an electric charge
While most people think of chemistry purely in terms of chemical reactions, chemistry also covers the study of the states of matter as well as the density of substances.
The five branches of chemistry are:
- Analytical chemistry
- Physical chemistry
- Organic chemistry
- Inorganic chemistry
- Biochemistry
Read more about what each branch covers here.
How to Do Chemistry Projects at Home
Many chemistry projects can be done at home using simple materials and are a great way to foster a love of science in kids! I wholeheartedly believe that a wow factor in a project engages and inspires kids to learn more. If you want to try chemistry projects at home here are some suggestions and precautions:
Safety First
Even though most of the projects in this list use safe, easy to find materials they should be used with safety precautions and under adult supervision. Why? Sometimes the chemical reaction that ensues can irritate the skin or eye, can be harmful if swallowed, or is just plain sticky or messy and adults should be on hand to supervise use . Also be advised that there are a few projects on this list that do use materials that are unsafe for kids to handle. These projects are meant to be demonstrations only and are labeled accordingly.
- Use household items for chemistry The classic chemistry project that never fails to impress is the reaction of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (look for a number of variations on this classic in our Acids and Bases section) but there are lots of other great ingredients for chemistry to find in your kitchen including sugar, salt, yeast, lemons, dish soap, milk, Kool- Aid, cabbage, gelatin, and food coloring to name a few…before you order any materials online, try some projects with pantry essentials.
- Safety Goggles
- Large plastic beakers
- Prepare for mess Since a lot of chemistry involves reactions and the ensuing mess, be sure to choose a place in your home that you can easily clean up and where you won’t worry about getting dirty. A patio, breakfast area, or the garage are great choices.
- Generous work area Be sure to have a large table available so everyone has plenty of room to work and/or view projects without bumping into each other.
- Access to Water Clean up is always easier with water at the ready! Choose a location near a hose or shop sink.
Managing Messes
- Hose it down Depending on the project I suggest doing super messy chemical reactions outside. That way spills can be hosed down easily.
- Painter’s Tarp & Trays If you cannot go outside a large plastic painter’s tarp is a great way to contain spills and mess. I also highly recommend doing projects on trays or cookie sheets. The raised edges help contain bubbly brews and are easy to dump out and wash.
- Dump station Have a bucket nearby to act as dump station for liquid reactions. Bring it around a table and dump at each station.
- Think about disposal Vinegar kills grass! Slime bits clogs drains! Be sure to consider where you can dump out the liquids safely.
Chemistry Projects for Kids
The following chemistry projects for kids are sorted by topic: Chemical Reactions, Acids and Bases, Carbon Reactions, Chromatography, Colloids & Solutions, Polymers, and Crystals.
Please note that many if these projects could fit in two or more categories in this post as they demonstrate various scientific and chemical processes. I only classified them once on this list.
Chemistry Projects with Chemical Reactions
What is a chemical reaction.
Chemical reactions occur when the chemical bonds in a substance are either destroyed or created. In other words the bonds in a molecule are broken during a chemical reaction and the atoms rearranged to create new molecules. Interestingly enough the number of original atoms does not change during the reaction, they are simply reconfigured.
An easy way to explain chemical reactions to kids is to use this analogy: Atoms are like letters, molecules are like words. Chemistry is like taking apart words and rearranging the letters to form a new word.
Read more about chemical reactions here.
Chemical Reactions Projects:
1. milk painting, 2. citrus battery, 3. elephant toothpaste.
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4. Density Lava Lamps
To make a density lava lamp fill a plastic bottle with the following liquids: Clear corn syrup, water with a few drops of food coloring, and layer of vegetable oil. Be sure to leave a space at the top of the bottle. Wait until the liquids settle then add in a tablet of extra strength alka seltzer. Watch as the alka seltzer and water react and bubble up through the oil layer. To see this in a step by step video check out this video (Pssst this is one of our students!!!)
5. Plastic Milk and Curds & Whey Experiment
6 . color mixing.
Pour water into three clear plastic cups, then add blue, red, and yellow food coloring to each. Have an additional cup full of uncolored water available as well. Give your child an empty ice cube tray and pipettes and let them create different colors by mixing different ratios of two different primary colors in each ice cube compartment. The secondary colors are new colors created from two primary colors. This is a simple visual of how chemical reactions work.
7. Chemistry Clock
8. blow balloons with yeast and sugar, 9. shiny pennies.
- Collect dirty tarnished pennies.
- Pour different acidic liquids into shallow containers. Try vinegar, salsa, lemon & lime juice.
- Add a teaspoon of salt to each container and stir to combine.
- Place a handful of pennies in each container and soak for 5 minutes.
- Remove them from the solution and rinse in soapy water. Let dry on separate paper towels.
- Compare the results! Which ones are shiniest? Which are dull? Did any turn green?
Acids are corrosive and sour tasting. Liquids such as vinegar, lemon juice, and tomato juice are acids. Pennies are made from copper which tarnishes (turns dark) when exposed to oxygen over time. Placing the copper pennies in an acid will clean the copper oxide off them and make them shiny again.
Learn about Acids and Bases
Most liquids are either an acid or a base. Liquids with lots of hydrogen ions in them are considered acids. Liquids with many hydroxide ions are bases. Scientists use a scale called the ph scale to measure how acidic or basic a liquid is. The more hydrogen ions in a liquid the more acidic it is and ranks low on the ph scale. The more hydroxide ions in a liquid the more basic it is and ranks high on the ph scale. You can see what that looks like here.
When acids and bases are mixed chemical reactions occur and the solution becomes neutralized.
Acid and Bases Projects:
1. baking soda & vinegar volcano, 2. lemon volcano, 3. the colorful cabbage juice science experiment and acid base experiment with cabbage, 4. dancing rice, 5. green eggs & ham, 6. bubbly citric acid brew , 7. baking soda vs baking powder science experiment, 8. exploding bags, 9. rainbow rubber eggs , 10. surprise eggs , 11. rainbow wizard’s brew, chemistry projects with fire (carbon reactions).
Carbon is the most important element for life. Chemicals that contain carbon are called organic compounds. Carbon has two main forms: The first is in the hard form of diamonds and graphite, and the second is the impure form found in charcoal, coal and soot.
SAFTEY WARNING: Carbon reactions are always fascinating to watch however the presence of fire means that these experiments must be supervised by adults at all times!
Carbon Reactions Projects:
1. smoking fingers, 2. fire snake, 3. silver egg, 4. invisible ink, chromatography.
Chromatography is the process of separating mixtures. We usually think of it in terms of color hence the prefix -chroma, however in chemistry is means simply a method of separating mixtures by letting them slowly move past each other. It applies to both liquids and gasses. This is wonderful in-depth explanation of chromatography.
Chromatography Projects:
1. chromatography .
In this project you will separate the color black into other colors. Fold a coffee filter in half. Fold in half two more times until you have a triangular shape. Color the tip of the coffee filter with washable black marker. Get a good coat of ink on the filter. Add a small amount of water to a plastic cup. Place the black tip of the coffee filter in the cup Wait and observe. Come back to the filter after an hour or two and see what happens to the ink. As the coffee filter absorbs water through capillary action, the black ink moves through the filter and is separated by the water into other colors. You should see blue, green and even red as the water separates the ink.
2. Chromatography Flowers
3. chromatography art, 4. chromatography bags, colloids and solutions/solubility.
Colloids and Solutions are two types of homogenous mixtures.
- Colloids are mixtures in which a small particles of a substance are suspended throughout another substance but not chemically bonded. They are stable though and do not separate. Examples of colloids are gelatin, butter, mayonnaise, fog and smoke.
- Solutions are mixtures in which the particles of one substance are completely dissolved in another substance. The solute is the substance being dissolved and the solvent is the substance doing the dissolving. An example of a solution is saltwater.
If you want a more in-depth primer on solutions and colloids hop over here .
Colloid Projects:
1. colloid examples, 2. oobleck , 3. make butter , 4. gelatin streaking, solutions/solubility projects:, 5. ice sculptures , 6. ice cream in a bag.
A printable of the science facts at play here
7. Skittles Science
8. magical water blossoms <span data-mce-type=”bookmark” style=”display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;” class=”mce_selres_start”></span>, 9. diffusion art, 10. paint solubility , 11. bleeding blossoms .
A polymer is a substance made up of a long chain of molecules. Polymers are typically flexible materials like plastic or gum.
The classic polymer kids LOVE to make is slime! Glue is already a polymer but when combined with sodium tetraborate (borax ) the protein molecules of the glue and the borate ions crosslink, making it harder for the molecules to move and forming the gooey, sticky, substance we know as slime.
Other polymers you are probably familiar with are plastic bags, balloons, instant snow, and even the powdery substance found in diapers that expands when wet.
Polymer Projects:
1. best basic slime .
Bonus: Get the Science Behind Slime printable here
2. Heat Sensitive Slime
3. diy bouncy balls, 4. magic plastic bag experiment, 5. instant terrariums, 6. how to make paper, 7. skewer through balloon , 8. dry erase figure and dry erase drawings, 9. recycled plastic flowers.
Crystals are a type of material that is formed by patterns of repeating molecules. There are four types of chemical bonds in crystals and therefore four categories of crystals. These are: Covalent, Molecular, Metallic, and Ionic Crystals. You can grow crystals by mixing up a super saturated solution (usually with a type of salt and water) and letting it settle over time so crystals will form. Check out the various types of easy to grow crystal below and go here to read more about the science of crystals .
Crystals Projects:
1. classic borax crystals , 2. overnight crystal garden, 3. egg geodes, 4. crystal wind catchers, 5. crystal landscapes, 6. candy geodes , 7. salt crystals, conclusion & more.
Alright you guys, do you feel like you have some good project ideas for exploring chemistry with kids? Many of these will make greats science fair projects. Be sure to start with them as a topic then start asking questions, form a hypotheses, and do some experiments.
Now I have to admit that I really fell in love with chemistry projects as an adult. Working with kids in camp, after school, and with my own kids at home I’ve had the chance to try fun chemistry projects and discovered that I love watching chemical reactions AND the reactions on the faces of kids and bystanders during demonstration or project!
If you have kids who fall in love with this branch of science please do check out the incredible book series Elements , Molecules , and Reactions by Theodore Gray (see the series in our Amazon science ideas list here ) The books are stunning, informative, easy to understand and, wait for it…funny!
Another valuable resource for kids who love chemistry is Mel Science’s Chemistry subscription box. They send you a starter kit for free with all the materials you’ll need and then each month you get a new chemistry experiment delivered to your door! This is great product because a lot of specialty chemistry ingredients are hard to find and these kits simplify getting the materials you need! Check it out here:
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February 26, 2019 at 10:31 pm
These were some really awesome projects. I really liked the Citrus Battery projects. It seems simple and easy for a young kid. I wish schools should give more focus to such experiments instead of shoving down the theoretical knowledge down the throat of young kids.
Carol Biggs says
March 1, 2019 at 4:58 am
Is all of this info available on book form?
Ana Dziengel says
March 6, 2019 at 5:49 am
Not at this time but that’s a great idea!
Betsy Mitten says
March 5, 2019 at 10:43 am
Thank you for making this fantastic collection of experiments with clear directions and easy to understand explanations of the science behind the fun! I know I’ll refer to this list often. I especially appreciate the way the experiments are classified/organized. I teach art with science connections and we are already planning on chalkboard and magnetic slime :). I’ll be sure to tag Babble Dabble Do when I post photos of work inspired by this on target collection!
Kyra Rodriguez says
March 5, 2019 at 10:54 pm
These are all great ideas! I’m pretty sure the kids will have fun and love this activities
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Chemistry for Kids – Experiments, Worksheets, & Activities
Chemistry for kids.
Learn chemistry for kids with these fun chemistry science experiments and worksheets. These easy chemistry experiment ideas are perfect for learning about states of matter, chemical reactions, and more. We have lots of chemistry activities for preschool, pre-k, kindergarten, first grade, 2nd grade, 3rd grade, 4th grade, 5th grade, 6th grade, 7th grade, 8th grade, 9th grade, 10th grade, 11th grade, and 12th graders. Whether you try these chemistry experiments at home , in your homeschool coop, or as part of your classroom activities – these are sure to be a hit!
Chemistry experiments at home
Our family loves using Apologia Chemistry, but these chemistry experiment ideas will work with whatever science curriculum you are using. Simply click on the TEXT LINK below to see our free science worsheets and experiments to round out your lesson. These chemistry science for kid ideas are perfect for preschoolers, kindergartners, grade 1, grade 2, grade 3, grade 4, grade 5, grade 6, grade 7, grade 8, grade 9, grade 10, grade 11, and grade 12 students.
Learn chemistry
- Color Changing Acid Base turmeric detergent and lemon experiment
- Colorful Polymer Chemistry Experiment
- Making plastic in the kitchen with the milk and vinegar experiment
- Simple Steel Wool and Vinegar Reaction
- MUST try how to make a lava lamp the EASY way or this halloween science version
- Outrageously silly Oobleck for kids
- Dissolving Summer Seashell Science Activities
Chemistry experiments
- Exploding Sandwich Bags like this winter version, pumpkin exploding bags
- Add a twist to your exploding bags chemical reactions and create some artwork with chemistry
- Flying Film Canister Ghost Rockets
- Blow up a balloon chemistry experiment -This is a super simple demonstration uses an acid and a base to release bubbles of carbon dioxide filling the jar and then blowing up the balloon. Try these balloon physics experiment variations such as pumpkin science ballons, ghost balloons , valentines day science variation!
- Explore density in this simple, colorful oil and water experiment
- Explore density further with this Rainbow in a Jar Density Experiment or this rainbow in a jar sugar density . Plus you can try one of these seasonal variations like this valentines science or this beach density jar
Chemistry experiments for Kids
- Can you make a bouncy egg by dissolving the shell to create a naked egg seicne experiment – discover what happens when you put a raw egg in vinegar
- How to Make Ice Cream in a Bag State of Matter Experiment (liquid to solid)
- Simple Blooming Flowers Capillary Action Experiment
- Intersting Summer Science Sunscreen Experiment
- How to grow crystals – a type of material that is formed by patterns of repeating molecules made of chemical bonds.
- Easy Crystal experiments – pretty rainbow , festive Christmas tree , and spring flowers , silly turkey , lovely Easter egg
- Fireworks in a Jar – water molecules on the move
- Lots of fun dry ice experiments for kids
- Egg shell geodes
- Giant Homemade Bubble Solution – A favorite for mixing in a little chemistry and physics with a simple kids activity! Try blow a geometric shape!
Periodic table activities
Learn about atoms, atomic numbers, and more with these fun atom and periodic table activities.
- FREE Printable Periodic Table Battleship Game for Students
- Fun Periodic Table Game or Kids (free printable)
- Printable Periodic Table Worksheets (freebie)
- Simple ballon Atom experiments
Polymer Experiments
A polymer is a substance made up of a long chain of molecules that make a flexible materials like plastic or gum. One of our favorite way to learn about and explore polymers is to makeslime! But we have some ohter fun polymer expeirments using plastic bags, balloons, and even ithe powdery substance found in diapers that expands when wet.
- Leak Proof Bag – Amazing Science Experiment with Everyday Materials
- Super Simple Sand Slime
- How do Diapers work Polymer experiment
- Heat Sensitive, Color Changing Slime
- Construction Slime Activities
- EASY Contact Solution Slime
- WOW 2 ingredient slime -our go to recipe
- Beautiful Rainbow Slime
- Edible, Gummy Bear Slime or this Cornstarch Slime with gummy bears
- Monsters Inc Slime with a zillion googly eyes
- Chocolate Goop
- Fluffy Unicorn Slime
- Melting Snowman Slime
- Red Hot Valentines Day Activity Slime
- Valentines Day Glitter Slime
- Purple Valentines Day Slime
- Beautiful Gold Slime
- Glittery Green slime for St Patrick’s Day
- Leprechaun St Patricks Day Slime
- Easy Halloween Slime
- Gorgeous shimmery Gingerbread Slime
- Seriously green Mr Grinch SLime
- Fluffy Christmas Slime
Chromatography Projects for Kids
In chemical analysis, chromatography is a laboratory technique for the separation of a mixture into its components.
- Beautiful Chromatography Butterflies
- Stunning Chromatography Flowers
- Why do Leaves Change Colors? A fun chromatography activity for kids
- Permanent Marker Experiment in chromatography for kids
- Colorful Chromatograph for Kids Snowflakes
- Simple Flower Chromatography for preschoolers
Candy Chemistry
For these experiments, your students will explore basic chemistry concepts by testing the solubility of substances in water.
- Colorful candy science experiments
- The classic skittle experiment covers a fundamental part of chemistry – chemicals move from higher concentrations to lower concentrations. We have various seasonal variation to choose from such as the apple experiment , cheery pumpkin experiment , cute turkey experiment , colorful st patricks day science , simple valentine science
- Dissolving Candy projects for Christmas science or Halloween science , peep christmas tree
- Jelly bean design a rainbow dissolving experiments
Chemical reaction experiments
- Ice cream volcano chemical reaction experiments
- EPIC Coke and mentos experiment worksheet
- Super cool Baking Soda and Vinegar Rocket Experiment
- Baking soda powered Boats Chemistry Activity
- Dancing Raisins is a fun, simple demonstration of chemical reactions. Try a seasonal version with this dancing corn or dancing conversation hearts or dancing worms , or dancing peppermint variations!
- Frozen Rainbow chemical reaction experiments
- Plus don’t miss all our exciting, 50+ baking soda and vinegar experiments
- Love potion chemical reaction experiment
Volcano science experiments
- Pumpkin volcano 3 ways: elephant toothpaste volcano eruption experiment (pictured), Pumpkin science experiments or this pumpkin volcano
- Apple science volcano project
- Look inside a volcano experiment for kids
- Watermelon volcano project
- Ice cream volcano summer science
- Turkey Feather volcano project
- Summer sand volcano
- Colorful lemon volcano expeirment for kids
- Simple Ketchup Volcano project everyone MUST try
- Easy Snow volcano
- Glitter Volcano science experiment for kids
- Chilly Snowman science Volcano
- Underwater volcano project
Water Cycle Activities
- EPIC Lego Water Cycle activity for kids
- Water Cycle for Kids pdf Flip Book
- 2 Hands-on Water Cycle Activities for Kids
- FREE Printable Water Cycle Worksheets for Kids
Electricity Experiments
Electricity, in and of itself, is not a chemical reaction; however, we do use chemical reactions to derive electricity.
- Lego Electricity Experiments for Kids
- How to Make a Battery Science Project
- 12 Hands-on Battery Experiment s for Kids
- Minion Squisy Circuits – electricity experiments for kids
- EASY Steady Hand Game – Electricity Experiments for Kids
- Tomato Battery Experiment for Kids
- Lemon Battery Project for Kids
- Ornament Carousel Electricity Experiments for Kids
- Magic Goo – Static Electricity Experiment
- Spinning Tree Christmas Science Experiment
- Christmas Lime Battery Electricity Experiment for Preschoolers
- Simple Light Bulb Experiment
Solid liquid gas experiments
Explore states of matter further with these fun projects:
- Cookie Jar Solid Liquid Gas Worksheet – States of Matter Activity
- Pop Rock States of Matter Experiment (liquid to gas)
- Making Homemade Butter – a states of matter experiment (liquid to solid)
- 2 Fun, Hands-on Water Cycle Activities – State of Matter Experiment for Kids (liquid to gas)
- Solid Liquid Gas for Kids with Hands-on Density Experiment
- Water Balloon Density Experiment for Kids
- Bowl of Ice Cream left out (solid to liquid)
- Simple Ice and salt experiment
States of Matter Worksheets
- Free States of Matter Worksheets
- FREE Printable States of Matter Coloring Pages
- Solid Liquid Gas Kindergarten Worksheet
- States of Matter Activity – clip cards
Click on the beaker above to explore our science projects based biology experiments for kids , physical science experiments for kids , earth science experiments for kids , astronomy experiments for kids , chemistry experiments for kids , and physics experiments for kids
Or see all science for kids , types of free science lessons , or seasonal science experiments .
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Science Experiments for Kids:
Science experiments you can do at home! Explore an ever growing list of hundreds of fun and easy science experiments. Have fun trying these experiments at home or use them for science fair project ideas. Explore experiments by category, newest experiments, most popular experiments, easy at home experiments, or simply scroll down this page for tons of awesome experiment ideas!
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Six chemistry experiments for elementary students.
The focus on STEM provides an opportunity to get elementary students interested in chemistry.
If you've never even taken one chemistry class, yourself, Education World has you covered with six elementary student-geared chemistry experiments for teachers to use in the classroom. From looking at water molecules to making volcanoes, teachers can educate their elementary students about chemistry and the scientific method.
- Water Molecules on the Move: In this experiment, students will see if hot molecules move faster that cold ones.
What you need:
- A clear glass filled with hot water
- A clear glass filled with cold water
- Food coloring
- An eye dropper
What to do:
- Fill the glasses with the same amount of water, one cold and one hot.
- Put one drop of food coloring into both glasses as quickly as possible.
- Watch what happens to the food coloring.
- Baking Soda & Vinegar Chemical Volcano: Students will make their own volcanoes and see their own volcanic eruption with this easy experiment.
- 3 cups flour
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Empty 20-oz drink bottle
- Deep plate or a pan
- Gel food coloring
- Dishwashing detergent
- Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
- Vinegar (dilute acetic acid)
- Mix together 3 cups flour, 1 cup salt, 1 cup water and 2 tablespoons of cooking oil.
- Either work the dough with your hands or stir it with a spoon until the mixture is smooth. Add a few drops of food coloring to the dough to make it volcano-colored.
- Fill the empty drink bottle most of the way full with hot tap water.
- Add a squirt of dishwashing detergent and some baking soda (~2 tablespoons)
- Set the drink bottle in the center of a pan or deep dish. Press the dough around the bottle and shape it so that you get a 'volcano'. Be careful not to plug the opening of the bottle.
- Eruption: Pour some vinegar into the bottle (which contains hot water, dishwashing detergent, and baking soda).
- Make the volcano erupt again by adding more baking soda.
- Make You Own Fake Snot: Ick! Students can make their own fake snot and learn about mucus in the process.
- Boiling water (be careful with this)
- Fill half a cup with boiling water.
- Add three teaspoons of gelatin to the boiling water.
- Let it soften before stirring with a fork.
- Add a quarter of a cup of corn syrup.
- Stir the mixture again with your fork and look at the long strands of gunk that have formed.
- As the mixture cools slowly add more water, small amounts at a time.
- Make Glue: Students will get "into a sticky situation" after they learn how to make their own glue.
- Baking Soda
- Measuring Cup
- Measuring Spoons
- Paper Towels
- Rubber Band
What to do:
- Add 2 tablespoons of vinegar to 1/2 cup of skim milk.
- Stir them together and let the mixture sit for two minutes. The vinegar will make the protein in the milk stick together to form small white lumps called curds. The leftover liquid is called whey.
- Strain the curds since you won't need the whey to make glue.
- To make a strainer, put a folded paper towel over an empty cup. Push it down in the center so it forms a bowl shape.
- Put a rubber band around the top of the cup to hold the paper towel in place. Pour the curds and whey into the cup with the paper towel.
- Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the curds. Put them between two dry paper towels and press down to get all the whey out.
- Put the curds into another cup, stir in two teaspoons of water and then add one teaspoon of baking soda. T
- he baking soda reacts with the vinegar that's in the curds, producing carbon dioxide.
- If you hold the mixture up to your ear, you can hear tiny bubbles popping.
- If this mixture doesn't look like glue, just add some water.
- Fizzing Lemonade: Students will be able to make and drink their own science experiment.
What you need:
- 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda/baking soda
- Cold water (at least equal to the amount of lemon juice)
- 1-2 teaspoons of sugar (to taste)
- Measuring spoon
- Squeeze (and strain) the juice of one lemon into a glass.
- Add 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda.
- Give it a stir to really get the reaction happening!
- Add some sugar to water to taste and add to lemon mixture.
- Taste your lemonade!
- Color Splash: Students will make see different splashes of color in water while they do this experiment.
What you need:
- 3 clear plastic cups
- Cooking oil
- Liquid food coloring
- Fill one cup about 2/3 full of water and another about 2/3 full of oil.
- Add a few drops of food coloring to each cup. Leave space between the drops so they don't touch
- Fill the third cup about 2/3 full of water. Pour in enough cooking oil so it forms a thin layer on top of the water.
- What do you think will happen if you add food coloring to this last cup? Make a prediction and then test it out.
- Touch one of the drops of food coloring in the last cup with the tip of a pencil.
Article by Kassondra Granata, EducationWorld Contributor
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COMMENTS
So simple to set up, but so lovely to watch the amazement on my son's face. Check out these fun ways for preschoolers to explore science…. Make liquid mixtures! Mix water and oil in a jar, let it rest, and observe what happens. Make solid mixtures! Mix two solid items and observe the changes! Mix a solid and a liquid!
Chemistry Experiments For All Ages. I wanted to create a resource for you to be able to find the perfect chemistry experiments for your students no matter their age or interests. This post contains 100 chemistry experiments for students from preschool age through high school. I have divided them into 3 age ranges. Preschool and Primary; Elementary
Extinguish flames with carbon dioxide. This is a fiery twist on acid-base experiments. Light a candle and talk about what fire needs in order to survive. Then, create an acid-base reaction and "pour" the carbon dioxide to extinguish the flame. The CO2 gas acts like a liquid, suffocating the fire.
Fun science experiments to explore everything from kitchen chemistry to DIY mini drones. Easy to set up and perfect for home or school. Browse the collection and see what you want to try first! An experienced chemistry professor used to say that it took about one explosion per week to maintain college students' attention in chemistry lectures.
Combining art and science, students can explore the melting points of crayons and observe as colors merge and form captivating patterns. 6. Make a Lava Lamp. With water, vegetable oil, and effervescent tablets, learners can craft their own mesmerizing lava lamp, elucidating principles of density and liquid reactions. 7.
23. Hatch a Baking Soda Dinosaur Egg. As the baking soda dries and hardens around the toy, it forms a "shell" resembling a dinosaur egg. To hatch the egg, students can pour vinegar onto the shell, causing a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas. Learn more: Steam Powered Family. 24.
Observing the Formation of a Gas. How a Chemical Reaction Can Produce Heat. The Formation of a Solid. The Occurrence of a Color Change. The Elephant Toothpaste Experiment. Hot Ice. Mentos and Coke Experiment. Separate a Mixture. One note before I move on to the activities.
8. Cabbage Chemistry. In the Color-changing Cabbage Chemistry activity, students use cabbage to make an indicator solution and then learn about acids and bases by testing various foods and liquids. 9. Foamy Fake Snow. In the Foaming Fake Snow activity, students make fake snow and explore chemical reactions and surfactants.
Go Science Kids. 43. "Flip" a drawing with water. Light refraction causes some really cool effects, and there are multiple easy science experiments you can do with it. This one uses refraction to "flip" a drawing; you can also try the famous "disappearing penny" trick.
Blow Up a Balloon. This is a super simple demonstration or experiment that has never failed me, and all you need is a container with a small neck, a balloon and either an alka seltzer or an effervescent vitamin tablet. The alka seltzer or vitamin tablet reacts with water to release bubbles of carbon dioxide filling the jar and then blowing up ...
Chemistry experiments offer an engaging platform for kids to delve into the core science of chemistry. Through hands-on activities, children can witness chemical reactions, acids and bases, and polymers come to life. Imagine the excitement of creating a baking soda volcano, watching borax crystals form, or mixing colors in a magic milk experiment!
Science is such a fun subject to learn! Whether your kids love school or not, they will be excited to try these incredible chemistry experiments for kids.Whether you have a preschool, pre-k, kindegartner, first grade, 2nd grade, 3rd grade, 4th grade, 5th grade, or 6th grade students - they will be engaged and excited to try these homeschool chemistry experiments.
And since these types of simple chemistry projects use relatively safe ingredients, they are perfect to try with younger kids, ie. preschool and elementary aged children! In fact I think it's so important for young kids to have a positive association with chemistry from a young age that fosters a love of this branch of science.
This fun atoms and molecules science project is a simlple way to ontroduce children to atoms for kids! This atom experiments for elementary students is fun for kindergartners, grade 1, grade 2, grade 3, grade 4, grade 5, and grade 6 students. This balloon science experiment is a fun, simple chemistry experiments at home. Atom definition for kids
Chemistry for Kids. Learn chemistry for kids with these fun chemistry science experiments and worksheets. These easy chemistry experiment ideas are perfect for learning about states of matter, chemical reactions, and more. We have lots of chemistry activities for preschool, pre-k, kindergarten, first grade, 2nd grade, 3rd grade, 4th grade, 5th grade, 6th grade, 7th grade, 8th grade, 9th grade ...
Science experiments you can do at home! Explore an ever growing list of hundreds of fun and easy science experiments. Have fun trying these experiments at home or use them for science fair project ideas. Explore experiments by category, newest experiments, most popular experiments, easy at home experiments, or simply scroll down this page for tons of awesome experiment ideas!
Science Buddies' elementary school science projects are the perfect way for elementary school students to have fun exploring science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Our elementary school projects are written and tested by scientists and are specifically created for use by students in the elementary school grades.
Mix together 3 cups flour, 1 cup salt, 1 cup water and 2 tablespoons of cooking oil. Either work the dough with your hands or stir it with a spoon until the mixture is smooth. Add a few drops of food coloring to the dough to make it volcano-colored. Fill the empty drink bottle most of the way full with hot tap water.
2. Place a few drops of food coloring on the lemon half sitting flat on the plate. Use two or three colors for a more colorful reaction. 3. Squeeze a bit of dish soap on the lemon half right on top of the food coloring. 4. Sprinkle a spoonful of baking soda on top of the dish soap.
C2H4O2 + NaHCO3 -> NaC2H3O2 + H2O + CO2. vinegar + sodium bicarbonate -> sodium acetate + water + carbon dioxide. Some of our favourite baking soda and vinegar science activities of all time include Bottle Rockets, Fireworks Experiment, Baking Soda Oobleck, and Hatching Dinosaur Eggs. No matter which one you pick, you must try at least one ...
We've put together some cool ideas to have fun and learn new things😉Which experiment would you like to try first?For cool and safe experiments to do at home...
Transform ordinary spinach into glowing spinach under ultraviolet light. Investigate whether an orange will sink or float in water, and learn about density and buoyancy. Explore surface tension with this soap powered boat experiment. Make pepper dance across the water with this easy pepper and soap experiment.
Introducing kids to the wonders of science through hands-on activities makes learning enjoyable and instils a love for discovery. Here are eight delightful and easy science experiments for kids that promise to ignite their interest in the fascinating world of science. Rainbow Milk Explosion: (Ages 5-8 years)
Science Buddies' elementary school science projects are the perfect way for elementary school students to have fun exploring science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Our elementary school projects are written and tested by scientists and are specifically created for use by students in the elementary school grades.