chemistry set experiments at home

Easy Chemistry Experiments to Do at Home

These 12 projects use materials you probably already have

• Activities for Kids
• Chemical Laws
• Periodic Table
• Projects & Experiments
• Scientific Method
• Biochemistry
• Physical Chemistry
• Medical Chemistry
• Chemistry In Everyday Life
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• Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
• B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College

Looking for fun, educational activities to do at home? This list of easy chemistry experiments and science activities will allow you to perform experiments with materials you likely already have in your kitchen cupboards .

You don't need esoteric chemicals and a lab to have a good time with chemistry. Your average fourth-grader can make slime , and it doesn't get any less fun when you're older, so this is a good at-home experiment for kids and adults alike.

Borax Snowflake

Anne Helmenstine

Making a sparkly borax snowflake is a crystal-growing project that's safe and easy enough for kids. You can make shapes other than snowflakes, and you can color the crystals. If you use these as Christmas decorations and store them, the borax is a natural insecticide and will help keep your long-term storage area pest-free. If they develop a white precipitant, lightly rinse them but don't dissolve too much crystal.

Mentos and Diet Soda Fountain

This is a backyard activity best accompanied  by a garden hose . The Mentos fountain  is more spectacular than a baking soda volcano . If you make the volcano and find the eruption to be disappointing, substitute these ingredients.

Penny Chemistry

You can clean pennies, coat them with verdigris, and plate them with copper. This project demonstrates several chemical processes , yet the materials are easy to find and the science is safe enough for kids.

Invisible Ink

Invisible inks either react with another chemical to become visible or else weaken the structure of the paper so the message appears if you hold it over a heat source. But we're not talking about fire here; the heat of a normal light bulb is all that's required to darken the lettering. This baking soda recipe is nice because if you don't want to use a light bulb to reveal the message, you can just swab the paper with grape juice instead.

Colored Fire

Fire is fun. Colored fire is even better. These additives are safe. They won't, in general, produce smoke that is any better or worse for you than normal wood smoke. Depending on what you add, the ashes will have a different elemental composition from a normal wood fire, but if you're burning trash or printed material, you have a similar result. This is suitable for a home fire or campfire, plus most chemicals are found around the house (even of non-chemists).

Seven-Layer Density Column

Make a  density column with many liquid layers . Heavier liquids sink to the bottom, while lighter (less dense) liquids float on top. This is an easy, fun, colorful science project that illustrates the concepts of density and miscibility.

Homemade Ice Cream in a Plastic Bag

Science experiments can taste good! Whether you're learning about  freezing point depression or not, the ice cream is a delicious result either way. This cooking chemistry project potentially uses no dishes, so cleanup can be very easy.

Hot Ice (Sodium Acetate)

Got vinegar and  baking soda ? If so, you can make " hot ice ," or sodium  acetate , and then cause it to instantly crystallize from a liquid into "ice." The reaction generates heat, so the ice is hot. It happens so quickly that you can form crystal towers as you pour the liquid into a dish.

Burning Money

The " burning money trick " is a  magic trick   using chemistry . You can set a bill on fire, yet it won't burn. Are you brave enough to try it? All you need is a real bill.

Coffee Filter Chromatography

Exploring separation chemistry with coffee filter chromatography is a snap. A coffee filter works well, though if you don't drink coffee you can substitute a paper towel. You can also devise a project comparing the separation you get using different brands of paper towels. Leaves from outdoors can provide pigments. Frozen spinach is another good choice.

Baking Soda and Vinegar Foam Fight

The foam fight is a natural extension of the baking soda volcano . This easy chemistry experiment is a lot of fun and a little messy, but quick enough to clean up as long as you don't add food coloring to the foam.

• Easy Science Projects
• How to Make Flaming Gel
• Kitchen Science Experiments for Kids
• How to Make Elephant Toothpaste
• Safe Science Experiments
• Homemade Silly Putty Recipes
• Science Projects Photo Gallery
• Fried Green Egg Food Science Project
• Baggie Chemistry Experiments
• Top Chemistry Projects for Bored Kids
• Mad Scientist Party Theme
• Second Grade Science Fair Projects
• Chemistry Experiments With Pennies
• Science Experiments and Activities for Preschoolers
• Baking Soda Science Projects
• How to Make Glow in the Dark Slime

The 10 Best Chemistry Sets for Adults

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For adult science lovers looking for fun ways to experiment and learn at home, a complete chemistry set is a great way to get started. One of the most difficult things about trying to perform chemistry projects at home is getting the chemicals and tools needed for basic lab work. It’s also difficult to find chemistry kits that match the difficulty level needed for adults since most are designed to teach younger students basic science concepts.

In this article, we’ll cover some of the best chemistry sets for adults on the market that will help get you started with your home chemistry experiments. We’ll also provide a buyer’s guide to help you choose the best set for your needs as well as some tips on how to get started with your new chemistry set.

Best Chemistry Set	# of Experiments	Price (~)
	250	$160
	28	$35
	∞	$160
	7	$22
	333	$218
	∞	$90
	125	$57
	50+	$35
	12+	$40

The Best Chemistry Sets for Adults in 2024

Thames & kosmos chem c2000 kit.

When you want a chemistry kit that gives you a lot of value, the Thames & Kosmos C2000 set is an excellent choice. With over 250 possible experiments using a variety of chemicals and materials (most of which are included in the kit), you can perform much more advanced tests than with other consumer chemistry kits.

The C2000 comes with an alcohol burner and professional-grade lab equipment so you can even try your hand at chemistry experiments that require heat. This can be difficult to do at home with other sets.

The kit comes with 50 pieces total and 12 different chemicals. Some experiments also require other household objects that are not included. So for more chemical reactions, make sure to have things like baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and citric acid at hand.

You also get a 128-page full-color lab manual that gives step-by-step instructions for each experiment. You can use it to find background information on the science behind all chemical reactions.

Overall, this is the best chemistry set for the beginner to intermediate user who wants to try their hand at serious experimentation.

Standout Features

• 250 different experiments
• 128-page lab manual
• Alcohol burner included

Thames & Kosmos Chem C500 Kit

If you’re looking for a cheaper introductory chemistry set for adults to get started, the Chem C500 kit is the perfect balance between versatility and affordability. With 28 possible chemistry experiments, you can delve into learning chemistry with ease.

The kit includes a full-color manual that covers science basics, the scientific method, basic laboratory procedures, and detailed instructions for each experiment. While the information is thorough and educational, it is written in a way that is easy to understand regardless of your previous chemistry knowledge.

The Chem C500 science kit is best for beginner users who want to explore chemistry without spending a lot of money. Experiments included in the kit are designed to be safe and easy to perform, making this a great choice for those new to chemistry.

• 28 different experiments
• 48-page full-color lab manual
• Beginner-friendly

Happy Atoms Magnetic Molecular Modeling Set

One of the basic tenets of chemistry is the understanding of molecules and their atomic structures. The Happy Atoms modeling kit is a fun and dynamic way to learn molecular structures through flexible magnetic model parts that let you build your own molecules. You can then scan your creations inside their proprietary app and discover what sort of molecule you created.

The educational value of this Happy Atoms science kit is significant. Most chemistry classes require some type of molecule modeling set, but they are usually fundamental compared to the Happy Atoms kit. Not only do their rubbery and magnetic pieces let you create a wider variety of molecules than your average modeling set, but you can also learn about the molecules as you create them inside the app.

The model pieces stay stored in a drawstring bag when not in use which also works as a scanning pad when using the app. It also comes with a poster (that also works as a scanning mat), a full-color manual, and references for several different molecules. This is enough content and chemical reactions to appeal to budding scientists and seasoned chemists alike.

• Includes 50 different pieces
• Additional app available for Android and iOS
• Magnetic and flexible for versatility

4M Crystal Growing Kit

For a more beginner-friendly alternative to some of the more robust science kits on our list, the 4M Crystal Growing Kit is a basic chemistry set that is perfect for the novice scientist. It lets you grow seven beautiful crystals by submerging rocks into the chemical solutions provided in the kit.

It provides all the necessary supplies and equipment, including PPE like safety glasses and basic tools and utensils for use in the experiments. The included experiment manual not only provides you with a wealth of knowledge on crystals and the science behind their formation, but it also provides clear step-by-step instructions for making the crystal solutions.

The crystal-making process itself is fairly easy and consists of mixing boiling water with the included supplies in a high-sided dish. You then add a plain rock to the mixture and let it sit in a cool, dark place for several weeks, checking on the progress of your crystals every few days.

The 4M crystal growing kit also provides cases for once your crystals have fully formed. This is a great way to display and protect your crystals and makes for a wonderful science gift for adults that can be enjoyed by all.

• Materials included to grow 7 crystals
• Display cases for finished crystals included
• All supplies provided

Thames & Kosmos Chem C3000 Kit

For someone looking to seriously study the concepts of chemistry, they need complete chemistry set like the Thames & Kosmos Chem C3000 . The kit consists of all the equipment and supplies (minus a few common household items) needed to conduct an impressive 333 different chemistry experiments.

The 192-page full-color experiment manual is a fantastic resource to help you learn chemistry. It covers the basic science of chemistry, explains how to use all the equipment, and details the different experimental procedures for all the experiments included in the kit.

The Thames & Kosmos Chem C3000 kit is easily one of the best chemistry sets around and includes everything needed for a budding scientist to start their home lab. All the equipment is student-quality similar to what high school students would use in their school labs. The kit includes advanced tools an alcohol burner and a tripod, making it possible to conduct advanced experiments front the comfort of your home.

The only drawback of this kit is its price. It costs significantly more than most of the other chemistry sets for adults on our list, but the quality of the equipment and the breadth of experiments possible with this set make it well worth the investment.

• 333 different experiments
• Alcohol burner and tripod included
• Student-quality lab equipment

Cherish XT Home Distiller Kit

For more advanced experimentation and lab work, the Cherish XT Home Distiller Kit is a steam distiller meant for making things like essential oils, moonshine, and other products. While this one is marketed for home use, it is made from quality materials that can easily handle laboratory conditions.

The distiller itself is made from durable borosilicate glass made to withstand prolonged contact with an open flame. The kit comes with a tripod and alcohol burner in place of the bunsen burner that would traditionally be used in a laboratory setting.

While this kit is made with essential oil production in mind (it even comes with essential oil bottles), this is a tool that any adult can use for advanced experiments that you will likely come across as you are learning chemistry.

• High-quality steam distiller
• Made from borosilicate glass

Thames & Kosmos Chem C1000 Kit

Yet another excellent chemistry kit from Thames & Kosmos, the Chem C1000 is a beginner-level science kit geared toward a 10+ age group. While it is technically a kids’ science kit, it has plenty of fun experiments and interesting facts that make it an interesting and helpful resource for kids and adults alike.

With the equipment and supplies for 125 possible experiments, the C1000 lets you experiment in all sorts of ways—including in the kitchen! Test different household items and foods like honey, sugar, starch, eggs, and more to see how they react when introduced to other compounds and chemicals.

The 80-page full-color manual not only walks you through the experiments, but it also teaches the basic chemistry concepts and the historical scientists who helped shape the field of chemistry into what it is today.

All in all, the Thames & Kosmos Chem C1000 Kit is a great way to learn about chemistry in a fun and engaging way—whether you’re 10 years old or 100.

• 125 possible experiments
• 80-page full-color manual
• Experiment with food items

Wild Environmental Science Test Tube Chemistry Lab

One of the more unique chemistry sets on the list, the Test Tube Chemistry Lab focuses on environmental science and green chemistry to let you experiment with gases, generating electricity, making things like a test tube lava lamp, and more. This chemistry kit comes with everything you need to get started on 50+ possible chemistry experiments.

The kit comes with its own lab station to keep everything organized and tidy while not in use. This chemistry set is rated for kids 8 and up, but it includes enough interesting content to keep adults engaged in hours of learning as well.

The full-color instruction manual teaches you the basics of chemistry and the science behind each experiment in a way that is easy to understand. This product is the best chemistry set for novice users and casual learners thanks to its easy storage and thorough lessons.

• Focus on green chemistry
• Lab stations to keep things organized
• Over 50 possible experiments

Ben Franklin Toys Chemistry Lab Pad Science Kit

Another chemistry kit designed for kids and adults alike, the Ben Franklin Toys Chemistry Lab Pad is a fully-stocked chemistry kit with over 50 pieces included. Everything is designed to fit on the included easy-to-clean pad to keep messes contained and work surfaces protected.

This chemistry set includes supplies for 12+ experiments with easy-to-follow experiment cards and a dry-erase checklist of action steps. It also comes with high-quality lab equipment like test tubes, Erlenmeyer flasks, pipettes, and more.

The Lab Pad is rated for ages 5 and up, making it the most accessible option on our list. While it is designed with kids in mind, it is still a great chemistry set for adults who are looking to learn the basics in a fun and accessible way.

• Easy-clean foam pad
• Over 50 pieces
• Designed for fun

What to Look for When Buying a Chemistry Set for Adults

Number of experiments.

Consider how many experiments you can do with any of the chemistry sets you are considering. The more experiments you can conduct with the kit, the longer you will be able to use it. Some of the chemistry kits we listed here had as few as 12 experiments which will be used up fairly quickly. Others had as many as 300+ experiments, which will obviously last longer.

Types of Experiments

Not all experiments are created equal. Some will be more interesting to you than others. Consider the types of experiments each kit comes with and make sure they align with your learning interests. For example, if you are interested in environmental science, make sure the kit you choose has experiments related to that topic.

On the other hand, if you want to be a chemist or like organic chemistry, you may want a more complete set that is more geared towards future professionals and has more difficult experiments.

The best science kits will have a variety of experiments that will appeal to different interests.

Equipment Quality

The quality of the equipment is important to consider as well. Some kits come with lower quality equipment that breaks easily or that is not designed for precision measurements.

Other kits come with better quality equipment that is more durable and can be used for more complex experiments.

Safety is always a concern when working with chemicals. Make sure the kit you choose comes with safety goggles and other safety equipment. You should also make sure the kit comes with clear instructions on how to use the equipment safely.

It is also a good idea to research further into safety. Buying a quality lab coat or having a fire extinguisher at hand is always a good idea. Even the best chemistry sets don’t have a 100% of the recommended safety equipment.

Educational Value

Consider how much you are likely to learn from the kit. While you want it to be simple and understandable, if it only covers extremely basic concepts, you won’t get much value from it. The more complex science kits like Thames & Kosmos that cover a wide variety of concepts in their kits in an accessible way are going to give you the most learning potential.

Make sure the difficulty of the experiments is enough to hold your interest. Kits like the Benjamin Franklin Toys Lab Pad aims to be accessible even to young children, so while that is a great option if you want to do some experiments with your kids, it likely won’t offer much of a challenge for you by yourself.

Procedures and Manual

A good chemistry set must have a good lab manual to get you started. If the kit includes an instructional DVD, that is a good addition too.

Make sure the included instructions have information about experimental procedures for each project and detailed information on all of the included supplies and materials. This isn’t just to help you learn—some of the chemicals included in these chemistry sets can be dangerous if misused or mishandled.

Finally, as with any purchase, consider the cost of the product. More complex chemistry kits will have higher price points, while the more kid-focused simple ones will be cheaper. While the price of professional or semi-professional kits may seem unappealing, they are often worth the extra money when you are buying the kit for an adult.

They come with better quality equipment and materials, so even after you have used up the chemicals, you can still use the tools in future projects. They also typically include more experiments (at a higher difficulty level), increasing the overall life of the kit. Unless the user is just trying to dabble with some quick and easy science projects, an intermediate or advanced kit will almost always be the best chemistry set for adults.

Can You Still Get Chemistry Sets?

Yes, you can still get chemistry sets. However, they may not be as readily available as they once were because of increased safety concerns.

Chemistry sets have been around since the early 1800s and were originally marketed to boys as a means of teaching them about science. Over the years, they’ve evolved into more complex kits that include everything from test tubes and chemicals to lab equipment and instructions for conducting experiments.

What is the Best Chemistry Set?

The Thames & Kosmos Chem C2000 Kit is one of the best chemistry sets you can buy. It’s packed with all the tools and supplies you need to conduct experiments in basic chemistry. It also comes with a comprehensive instruction booklet that will guide you through each step.

The kit includes a storage case for all your materials, so it’s perfect for taking with you on the go. You’ll be able to perform over 250 different experiments with this set, covering topics like acids and bases, chemical reactions, and chromatography. If you’re looking for a top-quality chemistry set that will give you hours of fun and education, the Thames & Kosmos Chem C2000 Kit is a perfect choice.

What Comes in a Chemistry Set?

Chemistry sets can come with a wide variety of items, depending on their intended purpose and audience. A basic set typically includes some combination of the following items: glassware (e.g. beakers and test tubes), safety equipment (e.g. gloves and goggles), chemicals (e.g. acids and bases), and an instruction manual, or an instructional DVD. More advanced chemistry sets can include other items such as a scale, pH meter, or even a microscope.

Can Adults Use Chemistry Kits Designed for Kids?

Absolutely! In fact, many chemistry kits designed for kids can be used by adults with great results. The key is to choose a kit that is appropriate for your skill level and interests.

For example, if you’re a beginner, look for a kit that comes with comprehensive instructions and plenty of safety precautions. On the other hand, if you’re more experienced, the best chemistry kit is one that allows you to experiment more freely.

Whichever route you choose, adult-friendly chemistry kits can provide hours of fun and learning.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best chemistry set for adults can be difficult and is dependent on a lot of factors like age range, complexity, amount of content, and more. We found the Thames & Kosmos Chem C2000 to be the overall best chemistry set. It has a large number of possible experiments, comes with advanced equipment like an alcohol burner, and has a detailed and informative lab manual.

The Wild Environmental Science Test Tube Chemistry Lab and the Happy Atoms Magnetic Molecular Modeling Set were both close seconds. They have a decent amount of possible experiments to conduct and come with interesting educational content. Not to mention, either chemistry kit has a great price point to match the number of supplies and materials you get.

No matter if you are into organic chemistry, atomic structures, or specific chemical reactions, always make sure that the kit consists of the experiments that match your interests.

If you are interested in a chemistry set for adults, you might also want to check out our articles on the best model kits for adults and the best robot kits for adults !

Are you planning to start your own home lab? Which kit did you like the most? Let us know!

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Best chemistry sets 2024: amazing at-home chemistry sets for kids and adults

Get the reaction you're looking for with the best chemistry sets for kids and adults.

• Sets for kids
• Sets for adults

How we test

Chemistry is among the most exciting types of science, but it can also be intimidating and complex for some people. But with chemistry kits, kids and adults alike can learn in a hands-on fashion, understand concepts easier and learn just how much fun science can be. 

There is a great range of science kits out there, with some better than others, especially if you’re buying for a beginner. For kids, you’ll want to look at the kit’s age guidelines, which might mean buying one with easy-to-read instructions and basic experiments. 

If you're looking for a more advanced chemistry kit, there are plenty of options that let you conduct a range of exciting experiments — from underwater volcanoes to test tube lava lamps. 

We’ve compiled a list of the best chemistry sets across all price points. With kits suitable for both kids and adults, you’re sure to find one that suits you. 

For more scientific tools and toys for your young ones, check out our guides to the best microscopes for kids and best science kits for kids respectively.  

Best chemistry sets for kids

1. National Geographic Science Magic Kit

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Starting things off with the best chemistry sets for kids, we have the National Geographic Science Magic Kit. This is a great option for those looking for a way to engage kids with science, by framing experiments as magic tricks. Color changes, magically appearing snow, and floating coin activities will gradually build on your child’s understanding of chemistry. There’s a magic wand included and easy-to-read kid-friendly instructions.

Even the most seasoned scientists still manage to find wonder in the basics of chemistry, with many fundamental experiments seeming like the work of magic. There are a few options available here, ranging from a starter kit featuring 10 activities, to a larger bundle that offers a wider variety of tests and tricks. The Science Magic Kit is designed for kids that want to show off their experiments to friends and family, adding a layer of theatricality to the proceedings.

2. WILD! Science Test Tube Chemistry Lab

For those looking for a more expansive chemistry set that’s still approachable for young kids, WILD! Science’s Test Tube Chemistry Lab is a solid choice. For starters, there are over 50 experiments to learn, including a test tube lava lamp, and STEM projects involving the metals copper and zinc.

Clear and easy-to-understand instructions can really make or break a kids’ chemistry set, so it’s great that you’ll find a large, full-color set included here. One of the bonuses with this kit are the resealable containers, which should help cut down on waste and mess. There’s a wide variety of activities for your child to enjoy, covering everything from color changes to more educational tasks that explain pH, diffusion, and invisible gases.

3. Playz STEM Extreme Kids Chemistry Kit

When selecting a chemistry set for children, presentation and packaging can be key to getting them engaged initially. The Playz Extreme Kids Chemistry Kit features a more cartoon-like design on the box and has more of a playful tone than other kits on this list. It offers over 52 experiments, including crystal growing and an underwater volcano.

The main issue here is that the kit is pretty pricey when compared to its competitors. It does seem to be on offer fairly often however, so well worth picking up if you can catch it on a discount.

4. Thames & Kosmos Ooze Labs Chemistry Station

The Ooze Labs kit from Thames & Kosmos features 20 experiments that teach chemistry through the wonder of slime and ooze. This is a brilliant set for younger kids, and has an easy to set-up stand. This stand holds test tubes and can be used to clip the experiment cards to. The experiment cards are brief, easy-to-understand instructions for each activity, with deeper explanations and science facts found in the accompanying booklet.

As you will likely know, kids love slime, and this is a way to get them active and interested in how stretchy materials are formed. The Ooze set adds an extra layer of fun, framing important scientific concepts in ways that children will love.

Best chemistry sets for adults

1. Discovery Extreme Chemistry STEM Science Kit

For those looking for a more science-focused chemistry set, the Discovery STEM Science Kit is a great choice. There are 40 experiments to try out, ranging from core concepts like acid/base reactions, to creating stringy worms. That’s not to say that this set is at all dense, more that it presents the science behind each experiment up-front. Important topics like pH litmus changes are taught, helping you take on some of the fundamentals of professional chemistry.

The Discovery STEM set has a couple of bonuses over the others on this list. First up is the included blacklight, which adds an extra layer of magic to some of the experiments. There’s a bonus poster too, showing off some of the activities that you will have carried out.

2. National Geographic Mega Science Lab

National Geographic has some truly great science sets, being one of the best brands for those wanting to scratch their inner Einstein. The best thing about these sets is that while they can be enjoyed by kids, the presentation and contents appeal to all ages too. This stunning set is a great option for adults/teens looking for quantity as well as quality when it comes to experiments as this box is split into three different sets: chemistry, Earth science, and science magic. As this is a bundle of sorts, it carries a higher price tag, but with the variety and depth to back it up.

Earth sciences and chemistry topics are all covered here, with everything from crystal growing to pH tests included. This is a chemistry set that will have something for everyone, with enough diversity in its activities to keep things fresh and interesting.

How educational are chemistry sets for kids?

From learning about invisible gas to growing crystals, chemistry sets can provide hands-on education that is particularly suited to kinesthetic learners.

The kits can also add a sense of fun and playfulness to a child’s impression of science, which can be important, particularly as they approach their later school years when science is studied in more depth. They can also teach children about the practical elements of science, such as how to dispose of chemicals properly (throwing chemicals down the drain can be troublesome). 

That said, there are plenty of science manuals and books, documentaries, YouTube videos and more around these days, so there are many different ways to learn about experiments without needing a chemistry set. But you should consider buying one as it can be an enjoyable and helpful way to complement learning at home. 

How do I choose the best chemistry set?

It's important to consider the age range of a chemistry kit when choosing one. For example, the Discovery Extreme Chemistry STEM Science Kit is listed for children aged 12 and above. Indeed, it covers some important topics like pH changes, which is perfect for a child approaching high school, but may be too complicated for a younger child. 

Of course, chemistry kits are not just for kids; they’re for adults too. If you’re buying one for yourself, we suggest looking closely at the experiments they offer to decide what you want to experience. 

Price is also important to consider and can vary from under $20 to over $100. You might also want to keep in mind that some science kits can be subscription-based — making them a long-term investment. 

For you, value for money could mean buying a kit that allows you to do a lot of experiments. In this guide, the kits range from allowing you to create 250 different experiments to just three. So, you can look at the type and number of experiments on offer to make the best purchase decision. 

Are chemistry sets safe?

In the past, chemistry sets have contained substances that would have fallen short of today's safety standards. For example, the uranium dust present in the "nuclear" kits of the 1950s.

Since the late 20th century, however, chemistry sets have been much safer. They are also made with varying age guidelines depending on the set. All kits aimed at children are also designed with adult supervision in mind.

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Jake is a freelance writer featured in NME, Eurogamer and VG247. He has a BSc degree in Chemistry and loves keeping up to date with the latest developments in the scientific world. He's also a total sucker for anything involving a time loop, and can often be found in dive bars all over the UK trying to flog his band. 

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Basic Introduction to Chemistry Kit

Your chemistry lab is set up... now what? This exciting beginner chemistry set has chemicals, step-by-step science project instructions, and other items to get started experimenting!   More Info

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Product Description

HAZARDOUS CHEMICAL: This kit contains hazardous chemicals. Not for children under the age of 15. For use under adult supervision. Read warning labels carefully.

CA Proposition 65: This product can expose you to Respirable crystalline silica (sand dust), which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov .

What’s Included

Specifications, more details, science standards, videos & guides, shipping & returns.

Shipping Restriction:  Item ships to the United States only.

• Economy Shipping is $7.95 for most orders (some products are not eligible ).
• FREE Economy Shipping on orders $100+ with code 100FREESHIP .
• Orders with 1-day or 2-day shipping placed by 1:00 pm MST ship the same day. All other orders typically ship the next business day.
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• Returns: Return unused products within 60 days. To get started, see our return policy .

Your chemistry lab is set up... now what? This exciting beginner chemistry set has chemicals, step-by-step science project instructions, and other items to get started experimenting! More Info

DESCRIPTION

Once you have beakers, flasks, test tubes, and the other essential lab equipment, it's time to do the fun stuff! Get started with the 30 beginner chemistry experiments in this introductory chemistry set, written in easy-to-follow steps.

Perfect for anyone just starting out with simple chemistry (whether they're young kids or in high school), this science experiment kit offers a beginner but in-depth and hands-on chemistry experience that promotes lifelong curiosity. This science kit is designed as a companion for our Basic Chemistry Equipment Set and contains chemicals, equipment, instructions, and explanations for chemistry experiments. Want to purchase both as a single kit? Look no further! The Complete Introduction to Chemistry (Grades 6-8) includes all materials for both kits in one box!

This beginner chemistry set will engage middle school kids in interesting and (truly) fun experiments with real chemicals and genuine lab safety gear. Lab supplies, like graduated cylinders, test tubes, and alcohol lamp are not included; rather, this is an experiment kit (with chemicals and instructions) meant to be used with your existing labware.

What do you get?

This bestselling, top-rated chemistry set provides:

• 6 lab-grade chemicals
• 3 household chemicals
• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• 16-page full-color manual filled with experiments
• 27 step-by-step experiments
• 3 bonus experiments
• 10 chemistry topics to explore  

What experiments can you do?

Check out our sample lab manual and the following experiments, which is only a glimpse at what's possible with this kit:

• Cloud in a Beaker, a demonstration of states of matter
• Color-change Chemistry, an introduction to acids and bases
• Super Cool Slime, an example of polymers
• Sample lab manual

Intended for Grades 6-8, this Basic Introduction to Chemistry set requires adult supervision. Younger children can join in the fun by watching a parent or older child complete the activities and explain the results. You provide common household items, like sugar, salt, and dish soap.

What chemistry principles are covered?

Learn foundational topics: states of matter; solubility & solvents; physical properties; acids & bases; polymerization; precipitation; physical & chemical reactions, and electrochemistry. Explore density, solubility, chromatography, endothermic and exothermic reactions, and more. It's a complete introduction to chemistry!

What else do you need?

To perform every experiment as written in the Basic Introduction to Chemistry manual, you’ll need the following chemistry labware (sold together in our Basic Chemistry Equipment Set ). Some substitutions may be possible.

• 250 ml & 600 ml glass beaker
• 100 ml graduated cylinder
• Glass stir rod
• 250 ml flask
• 4 test tubes
• Dropper (pipet)
• Plastic funnel
• Test tube rack & clamp
• Alcohol lamp, stand & denatured alcohol
• pH test strips
• Thermometer

MORE INFORMATION BOX

More Information

• Safety Information (SDS)

CONTENTS TAB

Basic Introduction to Chemistry Kit contents:

• 16-page, full-color, step-by-step experiment manual
• Phenolphthalein solution, 30 ml
• Sodium carbonate, 30 g
• Sodium tetraborate, 30 g
• Potassium bitartrate, 30 g
• Calcium hydroxide, 30 g, lime
• Copper II (cupric) sulfate, 30 g
• Yeast, packet (2)
• Alka-Seltzer tablets packet, (2)
• Lab apron No. 2, heavy vinyl
• Safety gloves, size 8 - 8.5 med.
• Safety goggles, splash, full-size
• Food coloring, 4 colors
• Candle, tea light
• Filter paper, 11 cm diameter, 10/pack
• Sand, coarse, 1 lb
• Copper, metal electrode, 4"
• Battery holder
• Alligator clips
• Spatula, stainless steel
• Rubber stopper, #6.5, solid
• Plastic bottle, 250 ml
• Balloon, med., (2)
• Flexi-straw
• Petri dishes, plastic, 2/pack
• Labware found in the Basic Chemistry Equipment Set
• Zip-Close Bag
• Distilled White Vinegar
• Baking Soda
• Stopwatch or Timer (can be found on a cell phone)
• Vegetable Oil
• Baking Dish
• 3 % Hydrogen Peroxide
• Black Washable Marker
• Aluminum Foil
• Popcorn Kernels
• Cotton Swabs
• Plain White Paper
• Glass Cleaner (must have ammonia in its components)
• Tub or Tile Cleaner
• Denatured Alcohol
• Hot Pad or Oven Mitt

SCIENCE STANDARDS

• MS-PS1-2:   Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred.
• MS-PS3-3:   Apply scientific principles to design, construct, and test a device that either minimizes or maximizes thermal energy transfer.
• MS-PS3-4:  Plan an investigation to determine the relationships among the energy transferred, the type of matter, the mass, and the change in the average kinetic energy of the particles as measured by the temperature of the sample.
• MS-LS1-7:   Develop a model to describe how food is rearranged through chemical reactions forming new molecules that support growth and/or release energy as this matter moves through an organism.

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The Best Chemistry Set for Kids (and Adults!)

January 1, 2020 By Emily McPeek 1 Comment

There’s no better way to learn about chemistry than with fun, hands-on experiments and science projects. Teachers and parents, read on to learn the best chemistry set for kids of practically any age . Adults are sure to have a blast, too!

We have reviewed and updated this guide recently, so it is ready for 2020. You can check the best available options right now.

Get ready to share a great adventure into chemistry together with your kids!

Why Do Chemistry Experiments at Home?

Kids are naturally curious about the world around them. Satisfying and encouraging that curiosity will help lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

Chemistry is driving practically everything that happens in the universe, and the best way to learn it is to see it in action. Think back to your own schooldays. What parts of science class were the most memorable? The experiments and demonstrations!

Chemistry is an empirical or experimental science, and it is extremely difficult to make it enjoyable for a kid using only theory, or textbook explanation. Many chemists even admit to not like chemistry very much when they were kids! This was because their learning experience lacked of experiments .

Basically, the reason to find the best chemistry set for kids with age-appropriate experiments is that they are educational and totally cool . Students of all levels can learn important science concepts and have tons of fun doing it.

We have previously covered how to set up a home chemistry lab , but today we focus on another very important topic: learning together with our kids !

And this kind of sets go beyond learning chemistry . If you are interested in other fields of science, you should go and get your hands into a science kit .

If you are looking for something to give as a gift to a chemist, check out this gift review !

In this post, we’ve got our pick for the best chemistry set for kids, as well as detailed reviews for eight different chemistry kit products, all ideal for classroom or home use.

Our Top Choice for Best Overall Chemistry Kit

As always, we start this review post with our number one pick. Today, that designation goes to the Thames & Kosmos Chem C2000 kit . This would be considered the intermediate chemistry set, between the C1000 and the C3000 products.

Thames & Kosmos Chem C2000 (V 2.0)

We rate this best overall because of the amazing number of projects, quality materials and full-color experiment manual. It is on the higher end of the price range among the kits in this article, but with everything you get, it is a great value.

Chem C2000 was the best in 2019, and is still the best option out there in 2020.

The Chem C2000 chemistry set includes around 250 experiments with professional quality equipment . As such, it is ideal for homeschooling and traditional classrooms alike.

Thames & Kosmos recommend this kit for ages 11 and up ; after all, there are some pretty serious chemicals in here, not to mention an alcohol burner for experiments that require heat.

Quick Comparison Table

Top 8 Chemistry Sets for Kids and Adults

The Best Chemistry Sets for Kids

Now, starting with our top pick, we’ve got detailed reviews of eight products which provide fun chemistry experiments for kids of all ages.

1. Thames & Kosmos Chem C2000

Thames & Kosmos offer a range of Chem kids’ science kits, and the C2000 falls right in the middle in terms of extensiveness, level, and price . It comes with the equipment and supplies you need for some 250 experiments with a comprehensive lab manual to guide budding scientists through each activity.

Thames & Kosmos Chem C2000

We would rate this as the ideal beginner chemistry set for older elementary school and up . Thames & Kosmos are famous for their award-winning products, so it’s no wonder they rolled out the best science kit for kids. Both this and the more basic C1000 kit have won awards from the Parents’ Choice Foundation.

Although it does not have as many experiments as the C3000 kit, it is very complete and very professional . It is recommended for ages 11 and up, but honestly, adults are just as likely to find this chemistry kit enjoyable and educational as children are.

Of particular note in the C2000 set is the alcohol burner, which greatly expands the number of possible experiments by providing a heat source.

2. Thames & Kosmos Chem C3000

This product is, of course, the more advanced premium option from Thames & Kosmos . Compared to the C2000 model, this chemistry kit has about 333 experiments, with extremely high quality equipment.

Thames & Kosmos Chem C3000

If you don’t mind the higher price point, this would definitely be the best chemistry set for adults of all the products on this list. It is just about the closest thing you’ll find to a professional chemistry set out there.

The C3000 model is recommended for ages 12 and up, and its experiments cover some fairly advanced topics. It would make a great companion to high school science , and would be right at home in the classroom as well.

If you are looking for a more advanced chemistry set for teenagers, this is probably a very nice bet.

3. Thames & Kosmos Chem C1000

Once again, another product from Thames & Kosmos that ranks among the best science kits for kids. Unlike its higher-end counterparts, the C1000 has just 125 experiments . However, this is still a very complete set, recommended for ages 10 and up.

Thames & Kosmos Chem C1000

Perhaps the most obvious benefit of the C1000 chemistry set compared to the other to is its more affordable price . Considering everything you get, we would still call the C2000 a better overall value, but this is another excellent choice.

Also, the Parents’ Choice Foundation has dubbed this one of the best chemistry sets for kids , too, by giving it their gold award.

4. Ben Franklin Toys Chemistry Lab Pad Science Kit

This product from Ben Franklin Toys is one of several options for chemistry kits for kids in preschool and early elementary school. Accordingly, it puts a focus on safety and exploration, and it is designed for children ages 5 and older .

Ben Franklin Toys Chemistry Lab Pad Science Kit

The distinguishing feature of the Lab Pad Science Kit is, you guessed it, the lab pad. Parents and preschool teachers will appreciate the lab pad, because it serves as both a work surface for experiments and storage for all the included equipment . As a result, everything stays nice and organized in between science days.

However, the experiments in this product are very limited. In contrast to the other chemistry sets on this list—even the ones designed for younger kids—it only has around 12 activities to do . The price for this product is in the middle of the range, but if you are looking for a great variety of experiments to do with your kids, then it might not be the best value.

5. Learn & Climb Kids Science Kit

Another chemistry set for kids designed for the preschool and kindergarten age group , the Learn & Climb Fun with Science kit is suitable for ages 5 and up.

Learn & Climb Kids Science Kit

Unlike the previous product, Learn & Climb provides a much more complete kit. It contains over 60 experiments , compared to just 12 in the Ben Franklin Toys product, and it retails for a lower price.

In fact, we would rate this as the best chemistry set for kids between the ages of 5 and 10 . The number and variety of activities is quite impressive, it is very affordable, and it is designed to help kids learn and explore independently. On this last point, the kit includes a kid-friendly experiment manual and an instructional DVD to guide young scientists through each project.

6. Learning Resources Primary Science Deluxe Lab Set

If the Learn & Climb science kit is the best option for elementary school-aged children, then this lab set from Learning Resources is the best chemistry set for kids who are still in preschool. Designed for children as young as 3 years old , it is perfect for the youngest scientists.

Learning Resources Primary Science Deluxe Lab Set

This kit comes with 20 double-sided activity cards that guide students through experiments with step by step instructions. Altogether, it’s a great kit for giving kids their first exposure to real scientific equipment , like test tubes, flasks, funnels, and even a “science view scope” that looks like a microscope.

So, if you want to encourage scientific exploration in your children or students between the ages of 3 and 5, then this would be our top recommendation.

7. Dan & Darci Light Up Crystal Growing Kit

One of the most rewarding and visually impressive science experiments you can do with your kids is crystal growing. While natural crystals take thousands of years to form in the ground, crystal growing kits like this one from Dan & Darci take just one week or less to form beautiful crystals that will fascinate children and adults alike.

Light-up Crystal Growing Kit for Kids

Although the kit is not recommended for use by kids under 8 years old, your younger kids can still get excited checking the crystals each day to see how much they’ve grown.

The Dan & Darci crystal growing kit is very reasonably priced for this type of product. It comes with materials to grow three crystals: one red, one blue, and one colorless. All you have to do is add boiling water and follow the instructions.

Arguably the most standout feature of this specific crystal growing kit is the LED light display. Once your crystals have finished growing, simply use the included USB charging cable to charge the LED display, and then set your crystals on top and enjoy the beautiful results.

8. Happy Atoms Magnetic Molecular Modeling Complete Set

When kids start learning about atoms and molecules in middle and high school, the new information can be very abstract and overwhelming. Don’t let this discourage them! Instead, help them feel curious and confident by putting those molecules right in their hands .

Happy Atoms Magnetic Molecular Modeling Complete Set

This Happy Atoms kit might seem somewhat expensive for a molecular modeling kit; however, it has a very innovative special feature that accounts for the more premium price. In addition to the magnetic atoms and bonds, it comes with a scanning mat and a free app download that will scan and identify the molecules your child builds.

Because of this, it is a great tool for kids aged 10-17 as they go through their first dedicated chemistry classes. Also, it comes with 216 enrichment activities that are fun and sure to foster a love of science.

If you want more info on molecular modeling kits, make sure to check our previous review .

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

In our opinion, from the very beginning when they start to learn some very basic scientific concepts (>3-5 years old), they can start doing some basic experiments. Of course, under the supervision of an adult! There are some kits specifically designed for very young kids…

Chemistry is an experimental science. It is all based on empirical evidence and therefore, the best way to learn it properly, is doing experiments. Chemistry sets are a great way to go on this road. Here we review the very best ones in the market…

Absolutely! Especially some of the high-end chemistry sets that we reviewed, are designed for teenagers, but can be used and enjoyed by an older audience. If you want something more sophisticated, maybe you want to check our guide on how to set up a home chemistry lab…

In all cases, any time you are performing chemistry experiments, always make sure that you wear lab safety glasses . Protect your eyes (and your kid’s) at all costs.

Choosing the Best Chemistry Set for Kids

Luckily, this is a very easy choice for parents and teachers to make. After all, the main factor to consider is the age of the children who will be using the kit.

If your young scientist is at least 10 years old , then one of the Thames & Kosmos chemistry sets will be most appropriate for general chemistry experiments, especially the Thames & Kosmos Chem C2000 model . This is a great option that even adults will enjoy. The chemistry kits from this series are a great complement for learning chemistry in high school too .

If they are taking chemistry in high school, teenagers would also strongly benefit from the Happy Atoms molecular modeling kit and its companion mobile app.

For elementary-aged kids, approximately ages 5-10 , we would recommend the Learn & Climb Kids Science Kit . This is because of its excellent array of experiments compared to similar products, its great value, and its clear focus on kids.

Finally, the Learning Resources Primary Science Deluxe Lab Set is certainly the best chemistry set for kids who are still in preschool and too young for the Learn & Climb kit. With visual instructions, bright colors, and safe experiments, it’s ideal for ages 3+.

If you want to check out some chemistry experiments that you can do at home without having to purchase any kit, make sure to check these examples .

So you see, there are great options available to do fun chemistry at home no matter where you kids are on their learning journey. These experiments are so cool, they won’t even realize they’re educational!

January 3, 2020 at 3:31 pm

I’d argue that is not possible to learn chemistry properly without doing some experiments. Experimentation is missing is so many science teaching programs for young peoples, and it clearly reflects in the way kids usually don’t like these subjects. I am not a chemist, but I have never took any course on highschool in which they showed some cool experiments. It was really difficult to enjoy the class. Now I do my best so this does not happen to my kids too!

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TOP 10 chemical reactions that you can repeat at home

Safe and spectacular experiments

4. Re­lease of gas

Ma­te­ri­als and equip­ment :

sodi­um bi­car­bon­ate (bak­ing soda);

• Fill a glass 1/3 full of wa­ter.
• Add a tea­spoon of bak­ing soda and a lit­tle vine­gar.
• Light a match and gen­tly low­er it into the glass, not touch­ing the mix­ture.

The match goes out.

Sodi­um bi­car­bon­ate (soda) is a com­pound of the fol­low­ing el­e­ments: sodi­um, hy­dro­gen, car­bon, and oxy­gen.

The re­ac­tion be­tween sodi­um bi­car­bon­ate and vine­gar forms un­sta­ble car­bon­ic acid, which im­me­di­ate­ly de­com­pos­es to wa­ter and car­bon diox­ide. The car­bon diox­ide gas ex­tin­guish­es the flame:

NaH­CO₃ + CH₃­COOH → CH₃­COONa + H₂O + CO₂↑

5. De­struc­tive vine­gar

• Put an eggshell in a glass.
• Fill the glass half full of vine­gar. Ex­am­ine the con­tents af­ter 12 hours.

The eggshell dis­solves in the vine­gar.

Vine­gar is an acidic sub­stance. It has the abil­i­ty to break down sev­er­al sub­stances, such as the cal­ci­um car­bon­ate con­tained in the eggshell:

Ca­CO₃ + 2CH₃­COOH → Ca(CH₃­COO)₂ + CO₂↑ + H₂O

9. Dis­solv­ing poly­styrene in ace­tone

small pieces of poly­styrene;

rub­ber gloves.

• Put on the gloves.
• Fill the bowl half full of ace­tone.
• Low­er the small pieces of poly­styrene into the bowl.

The pieces of poly­styrene dis­ap­pear. Just like this:

Poly­styrene is ex­pand­ed sty­ro­foam and pri­mar­i­ly con­sists of air. This is why it dis­solves so re­mark­ably in ace­tone.

10. In­vis­i­ble ink

piece of pa­per;

cot­ton swab.

• Squeeze some lemon juice into a glass, add a few drops of wa­ter, and mix well.
• Dip a cot­ton swab into the so­lu­tion and write on the pa­per with it. Let the pa­per dry.
• Hold over a burn­ing can­dle.

The text ap­pears.

Lemon juice con­tains acid, which dark­ens at high tem­per­a­tures.

More ex­per­i­ments you can find in our chem­istry sets for kids .

Dozens of experiments you can do at home

One of the most exciting and ambitious home-chemistry educational projects The Royal Society of Chemistry

At-home chemistry kits allow students to create lab experiences remotely

Stanford chemistry team delivers hands-on learning to remote students.

When it became clear last spring that in-person classes and labs would no longer be possible due to COVID-19, Jennifer Schwartz Poehlmann, senior lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, started brainstorming. She wanted to explore how to maintain the integrity and rigorous hands-on learning that were part of the introductory undergraduate chemistry sequence she had been teaching in the School of Humanities and Sciences for the last 10 years.

“I believe students have to have hands-on chemistry if they're going to understand it,” Poehlmann said. “When we went into remote mode, students didn't have that opportunity to interact with, observe, and learn from these phenomena firsthand.” 

For many students, this sequence is the gateway to future chemistry classes, whether they become chemistry majors, engineers, pre-medical students, or pursue other majors.

In an effort to bring some kind of hands-on experience to summer-quarter remote learners, Poehlmann and lab manager Amanda Nelson spent much of March scouting out available lab kits on the market. But they determined that the pre-packaged kits were not only unaffordable for college students,   they did not match their full learning objectives and would have required   the chemistry team to change the curriculum.

Laboratory courses regularly include fees to cover materials, and Poehlmann and Nelson hoped to provide a lab kit without substantially increasing costs for students.

“Stanford already has a preeminent laboratory design that has been developed over the last decade by our professors and lecturers as an integral part of the course to make some of the most abstract chemical concepts tangible,” Nelson said. “In short, third-party, hands-on products didn’t match our curriculum and were more expensive.”

So they decided to create their own kits. 

Designing the Kits 

Creating and mailing a kit that would be affordable and appropriate for at-home experiments turned out to be a huge undertaking. First, Nelson had to identify and locate lab supplies, including plastic beakers and a test tube set that wouldn’t break in the mail. 

“Then, there was the Mt. Everest of challenges: safety,” said Nelson. Working closely with Stanford’s office of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S), Poehlmann and Nelson redesigned the experiments to be educationally engaging but included materials that were safe and stable enough to accommodate a variety of home environments. 

Because students might have younger people in their households, the team also planned for the chemicals to be in small quantities, packaged in child-proof containers. They also needed to ensure that the chemicals used in the household “labs” could be safely disposed.

Finally, their proposal was approved. “In the final weeks of spring quarter, we prepared, packed, and shipped 25 kits in a matter of days,” Nelson said. 

A Successful Experiment 

Students enrolled in the General Chemistry 31A–B sequence this summer have been able to do experiments at home using non-hazardous salts such as calcium chloride and baking soda, Milk of Magnesia, and cabbage powder from their kits. The cabbage powder is a colorful addition, as it changes color based on the reaction occurring. 

“It's made from boiled cabbage, and you can concentrate it,” Poehlmann explained. “So anytime a reaction occurs—whether it’s slightly acidic or basic, or even if it's neutral, the cabbage powder indicator changes color. It gives a beautiful visual that helps to illuminate the chemistry that students are observing.”

The entire class, including the laboratory sections, takes place over Zoom, so students are running their experiments at the same time as their peers, with their instructor and teaching assistants virtually present. With a small group participating this summer, the class is taught mid-day Pacific Time, which has worked for the participants.

The teaching assistants, who have been cleared to be in laboratories on campus, demonstrate the more complex or hazardous parts of experiments that might require additional safety precautions such as a laboratory hood for ventilation or special waste disposal. 

For instance, to explore periodic trends in metals reactivity, the home kit includes small pieces of calcium and magnesium. But the lab, as originally designed, includes testing lithium, sodium, and potassium as well.  These are so highly reactive in pure metal form that they can catch fire when they interact with water, therefore those materials could not be sent to students. Instead students conduct the first two experiments with calcium and magnesium at home and then observe the TA’s remotely as they carry out the reactions with the more reactive metals in the lab.  

The students also have their own scale, stir plates, pH and conductivity meters, graduated cylinders for making precise measurements, and balloons, which are used in several different experiments, including one that demonstrates the three-dimensional structures of molecules. 

The hard work of bringing the kits to fruition has been rewarded by the feedback of students. “It's been nice to have a more practical, hands-on experience with chemistry in our own homes,” said rising sophomore Amaris Lewis, who is at home in New Orleans, LA. “As I'm doing things like preparing or heating solutions, it helps to be doing these step-by-step processes myself, and understanding why experiments are done in such a specific way really helps concepts from lecture come to life.”   Perhaps the biggest advantage of having undertaken the huge effort of sending the kits to students this summer is the leg up it gives the teaching group in preparing for fall quarter. 

During the school year, students in both General Chemistry 31A–B and those in 31M, Chemical Principles: From Molecules to Solids , will benefit from the home kits. And sections will be taught at various times throughout the day to help accommodate students who are in other time zones.

“The course enrollment in the fall is generally 300–400 students,” Poehlmann explained. “One reason we piloted it this summer was with the knowledge that we would almost certainly be teaching students remotely in the fall. A lot of them are going to be freshmen, and we wanted to make sure they had a really great first experience as they're coming into chemistry and the university in general.”

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Free printable to elevate your AI game 🤖

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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NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Amazing Chemistry Set - Chemistry Kit with 45 Science Experiments Including Crystal Growing and Reactions, Science Kit for Kids, STEM Gift for Boys and Girls (Amazon Exclusive)

Amazing Reactions

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• INSPIRING SCIENCE FOR KIDS - You've come to the right place for a kids science kit with massive variety! Your kids will make bubbling, color-changing solutions, glowing test tubes, a colorful bouncy ball, glowing worms, and a whole lot more.
• A TOTAL OF 45 SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS FOR KIDS - The chemistry set itself comes with more than 15 experiments, but there's also a bonus guide with 30 additional activities using common household items! This science kit for kids is a great STEM resource!
• EASY-TO-FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS - Other science kits for kids wish they had an instruction booklet this fun! Every experiment has illustrated, step-by-step instructions that are easy to understand. Your kids will feel like real scientists as they play!
• HANDS-ON STEM - Our science toys are known for being hands-on, and this kids activity kit is no different. Your kids will use real scientific tools, like test tubes, beakers and pipettes, as they explore the fascinating world of chemistry.
• HIGH-QUALITY EDUCATIONAL TOYS - We're proud to make the highest quality hands-on science toys, and all our products are backed by exceptional service. If your experience is less than stellar, let us know and we'll make things right!

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Product Dimensions	11.81 x 8.66 x 3.15 inches
Item Weight	2.09 pounds
ASIN	B093CPZYR8
Item model number	NGMEGACHEMAR
Manufacturer recommended age	8 years and up
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Customer Reviews	4.7 out of 5 stars
Release date	June 18, 2021
Manufacturer	JMW Sales, Inc.

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Product Description

National geographic amazing reactions chemistry kit.

With the National Geographic Amazing Reactions Science Kit, make bubbling, color-changing solutions, glowing test tubes, a colorful bouncy ball, glowing worms, and a whole lot more! Includes everything needed for 15 experiments, plus an additional guide to 30 experiments using household items.

A massive science kit with 45 awesome experiments kids can conduct at home!

The National Geographic Mega Science Series Amazing Science Chemistry Set is a huge science set with 45 different experiments to try!

With this kit, your kids will be able to hide and reveal a secret message, create color-changing solutions, cause a fizzy reaction, change the color of liquid with their breath, watch a test tube glow, build a bouncy ball, create gooey glowing worms, grow crystals on a tree, and a whole lot more!

This chemistry kit provides everything your child needs for 15 experiments, plus an additional experiment guide that contains 30 experiments kids can do using common household items.

This phenomenal STEM kit gives kids the chance to experience the scientific process in a hands-on way, just like a real scientist! There are so many activities and experiments to try that they'll be busy for hours, exploring the fascinating world of chemistry.

Our experiment guide contains kid-friendly, easy-to-follow instructions, and insight into the science at work in each experiment.

Order the Amazing Reactions Science Chemistry Set today and let your kids find the fun in science!

We make the highest quality hands-on science toys, and all products are backed by exceptional service. With a mission to inspire people to care about the planet, the National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations.

What's in the box

• Everything Included for 15 experiments
• Hide and Reveal a Secret Message
• Create Color-Changing Solutions
• Cause a Fizzy Reaction
• Change the Color of Liquid with your Breath
• Watch a Test Tube Glow
• Build a Bouncy Ball
• Create Gooey Glowing Worms
• Grow Crystals on a Tree
• Bonus Guide with 30 Additional Experiments

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Customers say

Customers find the activities in the science fundamentals kit engaging, entertaining, and gross. They say the instructions are laid out easily to understand, and the results of the experiments keep them engaged. Customers also say it's a great gift, and appreciate the age range. However, some customers have mixed opinions on missing items, value for money, and messiness.

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Customers find the activities in the science fundamentals kit engaging, entertaining, and great. They mention it appeals to the senses and causes excitement. Some say it's perfect for curious kids and keeps them engaged and entertained for hours.

"... It's so much fun ! Some are a little messy but nothing very bad...." Read more

"...of experiments included in this kit ensures a diverse and engaging experience ...." Read more

"...I rated this set as 4 stars because the kids enjoyed the experiments ...." Read more

"My younger brother loved this gift, he’s 10! Super fun , interactive gift!" Read more

Customers like the educational value of the product. They mention it provides great ideas for experiments, has many activities or experiments to choose from, and is interesting. They also say the results of the experiments keep them engaged and curious. Customers also appreciate the clear instructions and short facts to learn about the application in real life. Overall, they say it's a great learning and bonding time.

"Was a lot of fun with my 5yo! A bunch of different experiments , easy to understand with the help of a parent. Not super messy." Read more

"...The set goes beyond the typical chemistry kit, offering a comprehensive and enriching experience that goes hand-in-hand with the brand's commitment..." Read more

" Very fun experiments for ages 9 & 11." Read more

"...The directions are easy to follow and results of the experiments keep them engaged ." Read more

Customers find the instructions in the science fundamentals kit easy to understand. They say each experiment takes a few minutes to do. Readers mention the content is good and teaches them to follow directions. They also mention the book includes detailed photo instructions for the experiments.

"...The directions are wonderful and my young nephew loved doing it with his parents. Excellent family time...." Read more

"Was a lot of fun with my 5yo! A bunch of different experiments, easy to understand with the help of a parent. Not super messy." Read more

"...The step-by-step guidance ensures that even budding scientists with little experience can confidently embark on a journey of scientific exploration...." Read more

"My 10 & 12 year old love the versatile experiments. The directions are easy to follow and results of the experiments keep them engaged." Read more

Customers appreciate the gift value of the science fundamentals kit. They mention it's an excellent gift for young minds, fun, and a bonding gift for uncles, aunts, and grandparents. They appreciate the nice packaging and good instructions.

"Bought for my nephews birthday 🎂 it was a great gift ...." Read more

"...'s a gateway to the captivating world of chemistry, making it an ideal STEM gift for both girls and boys...." Read more

"My younger brother loved this gift, he’s 10! Super fun, interactive gift !" Read more

"...National Geographic Society, and the whole thing is packaged nicely with good instructions and everything you need for the main set of experiments;..." Read more

Customers like the age range of the product. They mention it's great for kids, appeals to a variety of ages, and is a nice gift item. Customers also say it'll show their kids how science works at home.

"Bought for my nephews birthday 🎂 it was a great gift. The age range definitely varies because as long as a parent is present for the younger kids it..." Read more

"Excellent product and great for children and adults . The seller packaged the item very professionally and delivered very fast...." Read more

"...I think this kit is good for stimulating young kids interest in science. Older kids will need a little more variety in experiments." Read more

"Fun and easy for 5 year old !" Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the missing items in the science fundamentals kit. Some mention it's a great kit with a lot of different activities, while others say several major components were missing. They also mention it doesn't include some home materials that the experiments need.

"...The inclusion of safety goggles and gloves ensures that young scientists can delve into the experiments with confidence and peace of mind, fostering..." Read more

" Missing the Yellow and Blue color packets . Don’t want to get a full replacement and return the existing item. Not sure what to do...." Read more

" Excellent product and great for children and adults. The seller packaged the item very professionally and delivered very fast...." Read more

"...I really liked that it came with everything that I needed and the experiments were fun and the instructions were easy to follow...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the value for money of the science fundamentals kit. Some mention it's worth the price, while others say it'll be a waste of money. Some say the projects are not very interesting and the quality of the items is not what they expected.

"...There were 2 or 3 that were kinda cool. But still very underwhelming . I think the basic experiments I find on Pinterest are more fun!" Read more

"We did the gross projects together and he had a lot of fun. It’s worth the money and gave us a fun afternoon together." Read more

"...Age range says 8-12 and I think that’s right on. It seems pricey , but having everything right there is well worth it...." Read more

" Do not waste your money . I sat with my grandchildren, aged 11, 11 and 7. We tried multiple experiments 2x to get them right...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the messiness of the science fundamentals kit. Some mention it can get messy, while others say it can become a messy venture if left unsupervised. Some also say the food coloring stains everything.

"...Once they are opened, you can't easily reseal them ...." Read more

"... Not super messy ." Read more

"...Some of the experiments can be quite messy , but there is a glove provided and goggles for your child to wear...." Read more

"...I love how it comes with all the materials you need and no giant messes ." Read more

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6 Best Chemistry Sets for Adults | Explore Chemistry with a Great Kit (2024)

Let’s be honest for a minute here – chemistry is just as much fun for adults as it is for children! Often, parents are just as eager to take part in chemistry experiments as children. Plus, when you involve your child in these chemistry experiments, you’re also enjoying quality time with them.

However, many chemistry sets are created for children. It can be challenging to find a collection designed for adults or even older children.

To help you choose the best chemistry kit that is suitable for an adult, we’ve put together this list. We strongly feel that the best chemistry set available for adults is  MEL Chemistry because it has the most varied and advanced experiments, plus excellent explanations.

However, this is not the typical one-off purchase chemistry kit. You can only get it as a monthly subscription (which is, as you’ll see below, one of its roaring advantages). So, read on if you’d like to find out more about it and our other recommendations.

Related post: Best Chemistry Set for 8-Year-Olds

Best Chemistry Sets for Adults

1. mel chemistry.

MEL Chemistry

A monthly subscription box that includes a starter kit with cool equipment, glassware and even a VR headset!

As an adult, many chemistry sets are simply too basic or uninteresting. While a 6-year-old may be delighted time and again with sodium bicarbonate and vinegar, you’re no doubt looking for something more sophisticated.

The good news is that the MEL Science Chemistry Kits deliver this and more! MEL Chemistry is a subscription that begins with the delivery of a very impressive starter kit and provides a number of different experiments each month. The kits include ‘real’ chemicals – ie. stuff you WON’T find lying around the kitchen!

Read all about this science subscription box in our hands-on MEL Chemistry Review .

Each of the kits has a theme, and sufficient materials are provided to conduct the experiments multiple times. Most importantly, the experiments are fun and educational. Not only do these kits deliver the “wow factor” that chemistry is well-known for. They also back it up with excellent explanations that truly teach important chemistry concepts in an entertaining manner. We couldn’t recommend MEL Chemistry more highly!

2. Thames & Kosmos Chem C2000 Chemistry Set

Thames & Kosmos Chem C2000 Chemistry Set

Comes with the equipment necessary to do 250 different experiments.

Thames & Kosmos Chem C2000 Chemistry Set is technically designed for 11-year-old children and up. However, this is not a set that a 10-year-old would be able to use independently. We would not recommend this set of 11-year-olds since the chemicals and instructions require more scientific understanding and reading skills than most children this age have.

For an adult, this chemistry set is a decent choice. It comes with the equipment necessary to do 250 different experiments, though it is entirely possible to use the kit to do your own tests as well. It also includes a 128-page color manual with instructions on all operations as well as some background information on chemistry.

Do you know what’s the real difference between acids and bases? Neither did my best friend. But when I gifted her this set, she learned all of it, and asked for more! In fact, her whole living room turned into a full-blown lab with all kinds of gooey solutions, beakers and test tubes.

With all that said, this is an intermediate chemistry set. If yours or your kid’s appetites get bigger, you may want to consider the Thames & Kosmos Chem C3000 that allows you to perform more than 333 experiments. If you want a kit that is best for high school level chemistry studies and some more, the C3000 is a better choice.

3. LINKTOR Chemistry Molecular Model Kit

LINKTOR Chemistry Molecular Model Kit

A great kit for visually demonstrating molecular geometry in a classroom or even at home to your kids.

What is the most fundamental aspect of any chemical reaction? You’re right, it is chemical bonding. 

Yes! I still remember having a hard time understanding the mechanism of complex formation through covalent bonding. So, if you are a chemistry teacher, nothing is more helpful for your students than using 3D models to teach all about chemical bonding.

This molecular model kit comes with 444 pieces. That includes 136 atoms, 158 bonds, and 150 parts for Carbon-60 (Fullerene — an allotrope of carbon) to make 3D modeling studies of molecular geometry an easier task. The sizes of the included spheres are in scale and match closely with the size ratios of the actual atoms. Also, the ball-and-stick arrangement helps students to study and understand the bond angles.

Any chemistry student fascinated by how our world is made possible by the magic of chemical bonding will love using this kit. The colorful components are good enough to demonstrate basic bonds and also relatively complex structures in compunds like cyclic hydrocarbons. However, the ability of the model is limited, and don’t expect to use it for building larger molecules.

Overall, considering the price, the kit offers excellent value. I wish my teacher had used this kit when I learned about chemical bonding.

4. Discovery Extreme Chemistry STEM Science Kit

Discovery Extreme Chemistry STEM Science Kit

A well-packaged kit for conducting some quick and easy experiments and having a fun time with the entire family.

Feel like taking a break from work and rediscovering the scientist in you? This is a package of 20 fun experiments that you can try at home or plan for a joint chemistry session with your kids. The process will help your kids learn about collecting data from experiments and analyzing them to draw inferences.

The kit includes all the necessary components and instruments that you will need. An instruction booklet is included, and you can also find online guidance. However, the instructions are not sufficient for kids to follow and they will need adult guidance to proceed with the experiments. Starting with the basic concepts, you can move to acid/base reactions and even create stringy worms

A bonus feature of the kit is the included backlight. That helps in adding more magic to some of the experiments. A poster with some chemical facts is also included. While it is a great STEM kit for kids, it will also help adults revisit the fundamentals of professional chemistry in a fun way.

Compared to the Thames & Kosmos Chem C2000 Chemistry Set from above, this kit is a more basic option. But if you prefer occasional forays into the world of chemical wonders without an elaborate setup, this is a cheaper and more practical choice.

5. Paper Chromatography Experiment Kit

Paper Chromatography Experiment Kit

Ever been interested in the chemistry of colors? Use this kit for STEM activities to guide students or conduct your own paper chromatography experiments.

Chromatography is one of the oldest analytical techniques in chemistry for identifying the separate components of mixtures. This chemistry kit is an excellent way to learn more about the technique and use it in multiple interesting experiments.

The two main items in the kit are 50 strips of grade 1 chromatography paper and a 400 ml beaker. In addition, it contains wooden dowels, clips, and 3 water-soluble pens. The kit does not include a solvent and you will have to choose the right one based on the nature of the sample being used. However, you can always use water as the most common solvent.

The kit can be used for multiple fun experiments and also for demonstrating the close link between chemistry and biology. To start with, you can try the fundamental experiment of separating the components of an ink. One particular chromatography experiment that I enjoyed is exploring the colors of fall by using the leaves. You can even try the experiment with colorful flower petals. 

Overall, this is a versatile and simple kit that can be used for science projects for the kids as well as for conducting a few fun experiments on your own.

6. Chemistry of Food Experiment Kit

Chemistry of Food Experiment Kit

Unlock the mysteries of various food items that you buy from the grocery store with this kit.

Think about it. We never know the actual amount of protein, glucose, and Vitamins present in the food we eat. By using this simple food experiment kit you can find out the basic components of your food and even manage your diet.

The kit contains 5 lab-grade chemicals including Vitamin C, protein and glucose indicators, labware, and a detailed instructional manual. While it will not allow you to identify individual components, you will be able to investigate the main components of specific items. Note, these chemicals should not be handled by kids and ensure safety while conducting experiments.

You can mix, cook, and bake using specific ingredients for better nutrition. Even better, you can compare food items, for example, homemade and store-bought jam, by using the kit.

Additionally, you can add a mortar and pestle to this kit which will help grind any solid food and make a paste to conduct the experiments. Whether you want to enjoy a few chemical experiments or are interested in nutrition, this is a great kit to have.

Which Chemistry Set Suits You Best?

Well, which set suits you depends on what you want to get out of your chemistry experimentation! Once again, we wholeheartedly recommend the MEL Chemistry kit . If you’re worried about it being a subscription, the great news is that you can pause or cancel at any time, so there’s really no obligation.

Whichever set you choose, we hope you have a great time exploring the wonders of the chemical world!

Last update on 2024-09-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Mark is the driving force behind STEM Geek. With 20 years of experience in chemistry education and research, and 3 willing children as guinea pigs, Mark has a passion for inspiring kids and adults to combine fun and learning with STEM Toys!

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