experiment with balloon baking soda

Self Inflating Balloon: Baking Soda and Vinegar Balloon Experiment

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Have you ever tried the baking soda and vinegar balloon experiment? This classic science experiment is really one of my favorites. It is an easy science experiment to do and it really is exciting to watch.  It creates a self-inflating balloon that kids think is the coolest!

The reaction between the baking soda and vinegar cause the balloon to inflate all on its own! It is a show-stopper experiment for kids.

(See more of my  STEM projects for kids.)

How to Do the Baking Soda and Vinegar Balloon Experiment:

Supplies you will need for this simple science experiment:.

Plastic empty water bottle or soda bottles, cleaned out Large Balloon White Vinegar (acetic acid) Baking Soda (or sodium bicarbonate) Small  Funnel Spoon

TIP: Before starting the experiment, you will want to stretch out the balloon to make it more loose and easier to inflate.

Step 1- Pour 1-2 spoonfuls of baking soda into the opening of the balloon, using a funnel. You’ll need to shake it a bit to get it down into the base of the balloon.

Step 2- Use the funnel again and pour some vinegar into the empty plastic bottle until it is about an inch or two deep- maybe a few tablespoons of vinegar.  Exact amounts do not matter. Add a few drops of food coloring to change it up if you want- totally unnecessary.

Step 3- Carefully stretch the opening of the balloon around the mouth of the bottle leaving it hanging down until you are ready for the reaction.

TIP: Don’t let any of the baking soda dump into the bottom of the bottle while attaching it.

Step 4- When you are ready to see the chemical reaction happen, lift up the balloon allowing the baking soda to fall down into the bottle.

This is when the fun starts! Baking soda and vinegar mix to create an awesome chemical reaction. The gas from combining the two will escape as bubbles of carbon dioxide gas that cause the balloon to inflate. It’s impressive. The more gas there is created, the larger the balloon will get.

Your kids, if they are anything like mine, will beg to do the experiment again, then 10 more times! This is really a perfect science project for kids to try on their own.

If you do repeat it, you will need fresh vinegar in the bottle. Once a reaction happens, it is not quite so strong the second time through. The balloon does not usually inflate again unless the vinegar is fresh.My kids were amazed and wanted to do it again and again and again. Stock up on baking soda and vinegar if you are planning this one! Luckily they are both quite inexpensive.

(It’s a good thing they are both so cheap!)

The Science Behind It: Why the Baking Soda and Vinegar Reaction Works?

When the baking soda and vinegar reaction happens, it is an acid-base reaction. Vinegar is the acid and baking soda is the base. This reaction between the two causes a gas called carbon dioxide to bubble and foam. This gas having nowhere else to go, expands the balloon making the self-inflating balloon happen.

Here is the chemical equation behind it: Baking soda + vinegar — yields carbon dioxide + water + sodium ion + acetate ion   There is more to it than that, but that’s the basic explanation.

Try some variations to see if other reactions work:

Will baking powder work instead of baking soda?

Would lemon juice work instead of vinegar?

Could you do the same thing with an alka-seltzer tablet and soft drinks?

Use the scientific method to investigate different variations on this experiment to see how they work.

Want More Baking Soda and Vinegar Experiments?

We love the carbon dioxide reactions that these two substances create.

Check out these other ones we have done:

Easy Bottle Rocket Experiment

Bathtub Bottle Rocket

Film Canister Rocket Experiment

How to Make a Volcano experiment! (This one is fun because when the eruption occurs, the carbon dioxide bubbles pour over like lava!

Former school teacher turned homeschool mom of 4 kids. Loves creating awesome hands-on creative learning ideas to make learning engaging and memorable for all kids!

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The Science of… Air

What a great idea! I can’t believe I haven’t heard of this experiment. My girls are 12 and 11 and still love doing at home science projects. Although they use Time4Learning science curriculum it is always fun to do your own.

Thanks for the idea!

Awesome! I’m making a list of simple, fun experiments to do this summer, and I’m adding this one to it! We don’t seem to get to these types of experiments during the regular school year! Stopping by from HHH and new follower! Thanks for sharing your experiment!

My boys loved this experiment too. 🙂

• Pingback: Fizzing & Bubbling Science Experiments - Teach Beside Me

I do experiments with 4 year old grandson, he loves this one. We did the volcano as well and now he explains what happens to everyone he wants to show it too. Thank you for sharing, it is fun teaching when the things work as well as yours.

fantastic from a grammy

Nice , it is possible to send easy experiments for kids with the help of video

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How to Blow up a Balloon With Baking Soda and Vinegar

Last Updated: February 2, 2024 Fact Checked

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 50 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 414,294 times. Learn more...

Learn how to inflate a balloon in this fun science experiment using these common kitchen ingredients! Balloons inflated this way are filled with carbon dioxide produced by the two ingredients reacting. They do not contain helium, so they will not float.

Inflating the Balloon

• You can try this with any kind of vinegar, but the inflation might take longer or require more vinegar to work. Other types of vinegar tend to be more expensive as well.
• Vinegar can damage metal containers, potentially adding an unpleasant taste to food and drink stored in that container. If you have no plastic bottles, use a high-quality stainless steel bottle to minimize the chance of this happening. Weakening the vinegar with an equal amount of water might also help, and won't prevent the balloon from inflating. [2] X Research source

• If you don't have a funnel, you can place a plastic straw into a pile of baking soda, put your finger over the top hole of the straw, then poke the straw into the balloon and lift your finger. Tap the straw to get the baking soda to fall out, and repeat until the balloon is at least 1/3 of the way full. [4] X Research source

• Shake the bottle gently to mix the two ingredients if there's not much fizzing.

• Don't go overboard. The bottle should never be more than about 1/3 full of vinegar.

Grasping how the Process Works

• Baking soda is another word for the molecule sodium bicarbonate .
• White vinegar is a mixture of acetic acid and water. Only the acetic acid reacts with the baking soda.

• Although the definition of acid and base can get complicated, you can compare the differences between the original substances and the "neutralized" result to see there are obvious changes. For instance, vinegar has a strong smell and can be used to dissolve grime and dirt. After being mixed with baking soda, it smells much less strongly and is no more effective at cleaning than water is.

• NaHCO 3 + HC 2 H 3 O 2 (aq) → NaC 2 H 3 O 2 (aq) + H 2 O(l) + CO 2 (g)
• The letters in parentheses show the state the chemicals are in during and after the reaction: (g)as, (l)iquid, or (aq)ueous. "Aqueous" means the chemical is dissolved in water.

Community Q&A

• This method can also be used in homemade cardboard or plastic rockets and you can make them go a long way if ingredients are out right. The reason it blows up is because the reaction creates gas, and the pressure builds up. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• You can use lime juice instead of vinegar. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• If the balloon is fully inflated and the liquid is still fizzing, the balloon might be about to explode. Decide whether you have time to pull off the balloon, or whether you should just cover your face before it gets spattered! Thanks Helpful 69 Not Helpful 25

Things You'll Need

• Baking Soda
• Bottle with narrow neck
• Funnel (optional)

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.cityofsacramento.org/-/media/Corporate/Files/ParksandRec/4thR/4r-SAH2-BakingSodaVinegarBalloonExp.pdf?la=en
• ↑ https://www.exploratorium.edu/science_explorer/balloon_blowup.html
• ↑ http://www.education.com/science-fair/article/balloon-gas-chemical-reaction/
• ↑ https://www.education.com/science-fair/article/balloon-gas-chemical-reaction/
• ↑ https://www.pbs.org/parents/crafts-and-experiments/inflate-a-balloon-with-baking-soda-and-vinegar
• ↑ https://www.cmosc.org/balloon-blow-up-science-experiment/

About This Article

To blow up a balloon with baking soda and vinegar, pour 1–2 inches of white vinegar into a plastic bottle. Next, hold a balloon loosely by the neck, fit a funnel or plastic straw into it, and pour 2 tablespoons of baking soda through it into the balloon. Then, stretch the neck of the balloon over the top of the bottle before lifting the balloon up over the bottle. The baking soda will fall out of the balloon, through the neck of the bottle, and into the vinegar. The 2 ingredients will fizz and react to create carbon dioxide, which will then inflate your balloon! If you want to learn more about the chemical reaction that occurs, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Science Fun

Baking Soda Balloon Chemical Reaction Science Experiment

Chemical reaction science experiments using baking soda and vinegar are a lot of fun and are great learning opportunities. In this quick and easy experiment, we are going to use an endothermic chemical reaction and the resulting carbon dioxide caused by mixing baking soda and vinegar to inflate a balloon.  

• Empty plastic or glass bottle
• 1 cup of vinegar
• 1/3 cup of baking soda

Instructions:

• Use the funnel to add the 1/3 cup of baking soda into the balloon. 
• Twist the neck of the balloon a few times to keep the baking soda from spilling out and set the balloon aside.
• Rinse the funnel and then use it to add the 1 cup of vinegar to the bottle.
• Next, carefully stretch the mouth of the balloon over the bottle opening. Be sure to keep the neck of the balloon twisted to keep any of the baking soda from falling into the bottle and reacting with the vinegar.
• Once the balloon is securely attached to the bottle, allow the balloon the drape over to one side.
• When you are ready, lift the balloon directly over the opening of the bottle and untwist the balloon.
• Quickly shake out the baking soda.
• Step back and observe. 

EXPLORE AWESOME SCIENCE EXPERIMENT VIDEOS!

How it Works:

Once the baking soda falls from the balloon into the vinegar, an endothermic chemical reaction will begin to occur. Carbon dioxide will be released that will create pressure and inflate the balloon. 

Make This A Science Project:

Does the temperature of the vinegar effect the chemical reaction? Test different amounts of vinegar and baking soda. Try different sized balloons. Does the size and shape of the bottle effect the speed at which the balloon inflates. Does the addition of salt to the vinegar effect the chemical reaction and balloon inflation in any way?  

EXPLORE TONS OF FUN AND EASY SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS!

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Science Experiments

Balloon Blow-up Science Experiment

Can you blow up a balloon without using your mouth? In this simple science experiment, we’re going to show you how to do it with only a few everyday items you probably already have in your home. It makes a great experiment for young children because the set-up is simple and it only takes a few minutes to get to the exciting finale.

In addition to a video demonstration and detailed printable instructions, we also have the scientific explanation of how this simple chemical reaction works making it perfect for older scientists too.

JUMP TO SECTION: Instructions | Video Tutorial | How it Works

Supplies Needed

• Small Soda Bottle
• Baking Soda

Balloon Blow-up Science Lab Kit – Only $5

Use our easy Balloon Blow-up Science Lab Kit to grab your students’ attention without the stress of planning!

It’s everything you need to  make science easy for teachers and fun for students  — using inexpensive materials you probably already have in your storage closet!

Balloon Blow Up Science Experiment Instructions

Step 1 – Start with some questions: How do you blow up a balloon? What if I told you that you couldn’t blow air into it, do you think you could still inflate (blow-up) the balloon? Then observe the supplies for the experiments. Do you think they can be use to blow up the balloon? If so how? Write down your hypothesis (prediction).

Step 2 – Using a funnel, pour about a third of a cup of vinegar into the bottle. We used Apple Cider Vinegar, but any type of vinegar will work.

Step 3 – Then insert another funnel into the mouth of the balloon. We recommend using two different funnels. One funnel for filling the bottle with vinegar and one for the balloon. However, you can do the experiment with only one funnel. Just make sure you completely wash and dry the funnel after you add the vinegar and before you put it into the balloon. This is very important.

Step 4 – Place two teaspoons of baking soda into the funnel so it falls into the balloon. When the balloon is filled with the baking soda, carefully remove it from the funnel. 

Step 5 – Next, secure the mouth of the balloon over the mouth of the bottle. Take your time doing this and don’t let any of the baking soda fall out of the balloon and into the bottom of the bottle. Take a moment to make some observations. What will happen if we lift up the balloon? Write down your hypothesis (prediction) and then test to see if you were right!

Step 6 – While holding the bottle, lift the end of the balloon and allow the baking soda to drop into the bottle. 

Step 7 – What happens to the balloon? Was your hypothesis correct? Wondering what caused the balloon to inflate? Find out the answer in the how does this experiment work section below.

Video Tutorial

How Does the Science Experiment Work?

When baking soda (a base) and vinegar (an acid) are mixed together they create a chemical reaction that results in the formation of carbon dioxide gas. Gases do not have a specific shape or volume, rather they expand rapidly filling their container. Gases expand rapidly because their particles move at high speeds in all directions. As the carbon dioxide gas fills the bottle, it has nowhere else to go so it begins to fill the balloon. As the carbon dioxide gas fills the balloon, the balloon inflates. The more gas that is created, the larger the balloon will inflate.

The baking soda and vinegar chemical reaction will continue to inflate the balloon as long as there is still baking soda and vinegar to react. Once the reaction between baking soda and vinegar has stopped, the balloon will slowly begin to deflate.

An acid is a substance that tastes bitter, reacts with metals and carbonates, and turns blue litmus paper red. A base is a substance that tastes bitter, feels slippery, and turns red litmus paper blue.

Other Ideas to Try

Does changing the amount of baking soda and vinegar change the size of the balloon when it inflates? What would happen if you used another acid like lemon juice instead of the vinegar? Would it react the same with the baking soda?

I hope you enjoyed the experiment. Here are some printable instructions:

Instructions

• Using a funnel, pour about a third of a cup of vinegar into the bottle. Tip: I used Apple Cider Vinegar, but any kind of vinegar will work.
• Then insert another funnel into the mouth of the balloon. Tip: It is best to have two funnels, one for filling the bottle with vinegar and one for the balloon. If you only have one funnel, it is important that you completely wash and dry the funnel after you add the vinegar and before you put it into the balloon.
• Place two teaspoons of baking soda into the funnel so it falls into the balloon. Then remove the balloon from the funnel.
• Next, secure the the mouth of the balloon over the top of the bottle. Tip: Don’t let any of the baking soda drop into the bottle…yet!
• While holding the bottle, lift the end of the balloon allowing the baking soda to drop into the bottle.
• Watch in amazement as the balloon magically inflates!

Reader Interactions

November 2, 2017 at 11:00 am

Yeah but don’t just eyeball the measurements of things because if you use to much baking soda it will make the baloon spring a leak and all sorts of stuff will fly out and make a big mess.

I speak form experience

Seriously, don’t do this

April 21, 2018 at 10:26 am

I did this experiment and it is perfect!

You need to hold properly the bottle when you mix the baking soda into vinegar.

May 22, 2019 at 8:57 am

We’re doing science experiments at school and this one is brilliant! I loved it a lot.

June 22, 2020 at 11:15 am

I love this experiment! My balloon grew 6 inches!

June 19, 2023 at 11:17 pm

I tried and it worked well – Exited to do such experiment

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Wait, Weight, Don't Tell Me!

A simple chemistry experiment—adding baking soda to vinegar—seems to challenge the law of conservation of mass.

Video Demonstration

• Safety goggles
• Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
• Vinegar (standard 5% acetic acid)
• Flask or bottle
• Measuring cup
• Balance scale that reads to at least 0.1 gram
• Optional: extra materials to experiment with, such as more balloons, zip-seal sandwich bags, 2-liter plastic bottles, etc.

• Pour about 1/2 cup (120 mL) of vinegar into the bottle or flask.

To begin, carefully put the sealed flask onto the scale and write down its starting weight.

You’re about to tip the balloon’s contents into the flask. What do you think will happen? Will the weight go up, down, or stay the same? Why?

Write down the final weight when the reaction is over.

Surprise—your balloon swelled enormously, but the weight actually dropped.

This result is especially confounding if you happen to be familiar with the law of conservation of mass : In any closed system, mass is neither created nor destroyed by chemical reactions or physical transformations. In short, the mass of the products of a chemical reaction must equal the mass of the reactants.

Did you really just violate the law of conservation of mass? You might be dying to know what’s going on, but wait, weight—why not figure it out for yourself?

The answer is below…but to avoid a spoiler, skip down to the Going Further section before reading on.

Alright, here’s the answer: Besides the chemical reaction, the only thing that changed in your sealed system was the volume . When you added the baking soda to the vinegar, the two combined to make carbon-dioxide gas, which inflated the balloon.

The expansion of the balloon changed the weight of your sealed flask because you and your entire experiment are submerged in a fluid: air.

Just like water, air is a fluid, and fluids buoy up objects. The upward buoyant force on any submerged object is equal to the weight of the fluid displaced by that object—this is known as Archimedes’ principle . By increasing the volume of your sealed flask, you cause it to displace more air, increasing the buoyant force on it and reducing its weight. Here's the thing to remember: Scales measure weight, not mass. The mass stayed the same due to the law of conservation of mass, but because of buoyancy, the weight went down!

Consider possible explanations for the weight change: Did the balloon leak? Did something funny happen to the scale? What else might be going on? Plan an experiment to test your theory, gather equipment, and carry it out.

For an illuminating variation on the original experiment, try combining your chemicals while they’re sealed inside a 2-liter bottle. Getting things to mix only after you’ve sealed the bottle is an engineering design challenge unto itself. Caution: Do not exceed the recommended amounts of 1/2 cup (120 mL) vinegar and 2 teaspoons (10 mL) baking soda.

To confirm Archimedes’ principle, measure the volume of the balloon and use the known density of air (0.001225 g/cm 3 at 15° C at sea level) to calculate exactly the weight of air displaced by your expanding balloon. Does the weight loss of your flask match the theoretical prediction?

This activity is meant to spark more experimentation. Having a variety of supplies on hand will allow for creative investigation into this phenomenon.

This idea was first introduced to us by visiting fellow Eleanor Duckworth of Harvard University.

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Balloon Blow-Up Science Experiment

• Written by Children's Museum Team
• Posted on Monday April 13, 2020

Blow-Up a Balloon Using Science! Ages 3+

Using items easily found at home, you can blow up a balloon without using your mouth or your own breath! This isn’t magic; it’s science!

This experiment demonstrates how states of matter can change – mixing a solid with a liquid to create gas! The science behind this balloon baking soda experiment is the chemical reaction between the base – baking soda – and the acid – vinegar. When the two ingredients mix together the balloon baking soda experiment gets its lift! The gas produced from the two ingredients is carbon dioxide or CO2.

Carbon dioxide is the same gas that is produced by the human lungs and is a biproduct of our respiratory system. We breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide.

Vocabulary:

• Extra Credit Word: Exothermic (absorbs heat, so it feels cold)

Balloon Blow-Up Experiment Materials:

• Empty 12-16 oz soda bottle (or any bottle about that size with a small neck)
• Baking Soda
• Small funnel
• Small measuring cup

Balloon Blow-Up Experiment Directions:

• Have your children scoop the baking soda into the balloon using the funnel
• Help your children put the vinegar into the flask using a pipette or small measuring cup
• Next, attach the balloon to the top of the flask; make sure not to pour the baking soda into the vinegar!
• Ask your children what might happen, and why.
• Count to 3 and everyone holds up their balloon so the baking soda falls into the vinegar, creating a chemical reaction and blowing up their balloon.
• Let the kids know what will happen scientifically SCIENCE: When baking soda and vinegar are mixed together, it creates a gas called carbon dioxide. The gas begins to expand in the bottle and starts to inflate the balloon. The more gas that is created, the larger the balloon will inflate.
• Follow up experiment: ask your children if they think blowing a balloon up using their breath is faster or slower than with baking soda and vinegar. Why? Test it out!

Check out these other STEAM activities that are sure to engage, entertain, and educate!

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Baking Soda and Vinegar Balloon Experiment

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There are many ways to create a stunning reaction between baking soda and vinegar, but I would have to say that this super fun science experiment ranks towards the top of the list in my household.

My kids…and my wife and I loved doing this simple experiment together at home while learning about the science behind it! I hope you and your kids will love it too! So let’s go ahead and get started with this Baking Soda and Vinegar Balloon Experiment.

Get more fun Vinegar And Baking Soda Experiments here!

PIN THIS EXPERIMENT FOR LATER

I can’t tell you how many times I have created the classic baking soda and vinegar volcano for myself and my kids and it never gets old. But I really think I have found my new favorite way to show the baking soda and vinegar reaction with this experiment you can try for yourself at home!

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Supplies Needed:

• Plastic water bottle
• Baking soda
• Food coloring (optional)

How to inflate a balloon with baking soda and vinegar

• Use a funnel and a spoon to get 1 Tablespoon of baking soda into the balloon.
• Fill a plastic bottle about 1/4 full of vinegar (Add food coloring if you want).
• Connect the balloon to the top of the plastic bottle, while being careful not to let the baking soda out of the balloon yet.
• Raise the balloon upright and watch your balloon inflate right before your eyes!

Step 1: Fill your balloon with baking soda

You need to get a heaping tablespoon of baking soda into your balloon before you inflate it. This first step might actually prove be the trickiest part of the whole experiment, but it’s totally worth it!

The easiest way to get the baking soda into the balloon is to connect the balloon to a funnel and then pour the baking soda into the funnel. You may need to stretch the neck of the balloon a little bit to help the baking soda fall down into the balloon.

Heads up: You just might happen to be like me and get clumps in your baking soda and it can clog your funnel into the balloon. If this happens, don’t worry! I learned a little life hack by using a skewer to poke into the funnel and unplug the clog (just use caution not to poke a hole in your balloon with it).

Step 2: Add some vinegar to the bottle

Now that we have the balloon filled with baking soda, go ahead and grab your water bottle and carefully add some vinegar to your bottle. You will want to add enough vinegar to fill your bottle about 1/4 of the way full.

You might want to use a funnel to make this part less messy, but just remember to wash it first so that you don’t cause an early reaction with the baking soda that may still be on your funnel from filling the balloons earlier.

After you have put some vinegar into the bottle, you can also add a drop or two of food coloring of your choice into the bottle. This is completely optional and does not affect the reaction, but it does make it a little more fun to watch!

Step 3: Attach the baking soda filled balloon to the bottle

We are almost ready to watch our balloon magically fill up with air! In this next step, you need to use caution not to spill any baking soda out of the balloon into the bottle! This would cause a premature eruption before you get a chance to inflate your balloon…and nobody wants that to happen!

The easiest way to avoid an early eruption while attaching your balloon to the top opening in the bottle is to keep the ballon hanging off the side of the bottle while sliding the mouth of the balloon over the bottle.

Step 4: Lift the balloon up and watch it inflate as the baking soda falls into the vinegar below

Now it’s time to watch the magic happen as you hold your balloon upright above the bottle. The first thing you will see is the baking soda in the balloon falling down into the vinegar inside the bottle.

The baking soda and vinegar will react together and begin to bubble and expand first. Then you will see your balloon start to grow and grow until the reaction slows down and the balloons will begin to shrink again (or you can quickly take them off while they are full and tie them too).

Baking soda and vinegar balloon experiment explanation:

The reason that we are able to inflate a ballon in this experiment is thanks to the magical reaction of the baking soda and vinegar. As the baking soda and vinegar interact they release a gas (carbon dioxide) and increase the air pressure in the bottle.

As the air pressure increases due to the additional gas being created by the reaction, it forces air into the balloon and begins to inflate the balloon. This is why the amount of baking soda and vinegar you use in this experiment will determine how big or small your balloon will inflate too.

If you want to dive a little deeper into the science behind air pressure then you might want to check out this super cool experiment – How to make a cloud in a bottle (without matches) .

Why does baking soda react with vinegar?

The very common and exciting reaction of baking soda and vinegar is the base for many household experiments, but what is the science behind why the two ingredients make such an eruption!?

The simple science behind the reaction is that baking soda is a base, while vinegar is an acid, which do not get along when mixed together. Another important factor is that vinegar also has water in it.

The water in the vinegar plays an important part in allowing the baking soda (the base) to take a proton from the vinegar (the acid). As this reaction takes place, carbon dioxide is released by the baking soda into the bottle, which eventually fills the balloon up!

More Simple and Fun Balloon Experiments:

• Yeast Balloon Experiment
• Light Bulb Balloon Experiment
• Balloon Science Experiments

November 12, 2022 at 6:54 pm

Great challenge when doing experiment with the children in the kindergarten under my. care

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Easy Vinegar and Baking Soda Balloon Experiment for Kids

By: Author Sara McClure

Posted on Published: February 12, 2018  - Last updated: January 7, 2023

Categories Homeschool , Kids Activities , Science

Sharing is caring!

This fun Vinegar and Baking Soda Balloon Experiment will have the kids squealing with excitement. Trust me, they'll want to do this easy science experiment for kids over and over again!

Much like our Sugar and Yeast Balloon Science Experiment , kids will learn how to blow up a balloon with vinegar and baking soda and learn a little chemistry at the same time.

*Affiliate links are present.*

Material s Needed for the Vinegar & Baking Soda Balloon Experiment

This easy science experiment for kids only take a few common household materials, so it's a very frugal activity to do with kids. Frugal and easy are the best kind of kids activities, right? If you don't have these items, head to the closest dollar store and grab these items for cheap. Or, use the links below to order them. You will need:

• Empty, recycled bottle from water or a soda (you'll want to make sure it has a small spout/lid, NOT something larger like a wide sports drink lid)
• Baking Soda

How To Blow Up a Balloon with a Vinegar and Baking Soda Reaction

For the baking soda and vinegar balloon experiment, fill your empty water bottle about ⅓ of the way full with vinegar .

Stretch the balloon over the funnel.

Use the funnel to fill the balloon with baking soda . It doesn't need to be all the way full--we didn't measure, but I'd say it was about 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda .

Carefully place the balloon over the bottle opening without dropping the baking soda in the bottle.

When you are ready, have your child lift the balloon to sprinkle the baking soda into the bottle.

Watch the balloon blow up from the chemical reaction. It will grow...

and grow...

My kids wanted to do this over and over again and I bet yours will, too! Be sure to have a bunch of balloons handy.

While you have the baking soda and vinegar out, you should make a volcano , too!

Why does baking soda and vinegar inflate a balloon?

The baking soda and vinegar create an acid/base reaction. The baking soda is the base and the vinegar is the acid. When the two are mixed, they work together to create a gas called carbon dioxide (CO2). Gasses need a lot of room to spread out and the carbon dioxide starts to fill the bottle and then moves into the balloon to inflate it. Pretty cool, huh?

More Easy Science Experiments for Kids:

Simple Science: Testing for Air Magic Light Bulb Balloon Science Experiment Simple Science: Observing Snowflakes Moon Crater Science Experiment

In this easy science experiment for kids, blow up a balloon with a vinegar and baking soda reaction.

• Empty, recycled bottle from a bottled water

Instructions

• Fill your empty bottle about ⅓ of the way full with vinegar. Set aside.

How does this baking soda and vinegar balloon experiment work? The baking soda and vinegar create an acid/base reaction. The baking soda is the base and the vinegar is the acid. When the two are mixed they work together to create a gas called carbon dioxide (CO2). Gasses need a lot of room to spread out and the carbon dioxide starts to fill the bottle and then moves into the balloon to inflate it. Pretty cool, huh?

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janae passer

Friday 5th of February 2021

This is cool! I am going to attempt it online during distance learning! :)

100 Screen-free Summer Activities for Kids | Happy Brown House

Wednesday 17th of April 2019

[…] 27. Blow up a balloon with vinegar and baking soda […]

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Science project, baking soda and vinegar balloon.

By now, you've probably heard of the explosive reaction that occurs when you mix baking soda and vinegar. That's old news. However, do you know what happens when you add a balloon to the mix? Discover more about chemical reactions with this fun and surprising science experiment.

Can you blow up a balloon with the reaction between baking soda and vinegar?

• 2 water bottles
• 8 ounces white vinegar
• 4 tablespoons baking soda
• Permanent marker
• Small funnel
• Mark your two balloons with permanent marker: "1" for room temperature, "2" for ice bath.
• Mark the water bottles the same way: "1" for room temperature, "2" for ice bath.
• Use the small funnel to put 2 tablespoons of baking soda in each balloon.
• Clean the funnel well with running water, then dry it.
• Use the small funnel to put 4 ounces of white vinegar in each water bottle.
• Place Bottle 2 in the bowl of ice.
• After three minutes place the balloon on top of the bottles, being careful not to spill the baking soda into the bottles yet.
• Set your timer.
• Tip both balloons upwards to drop the baking soda into the vinegar.
• Record your results.

Baking soda and vinegar should have been able to blow up the ballon every time. However, you should have observed that the balloon at room temperature blew up significantly faster than the cold balloon.

When vinegar and baking soda mix, they create the gas carbon dioxide and water. The carbon dioxide has no where to go, but into the balloon - blowing it up. But you should have found that the balloon at room temperature may have been slightly faster in blowing up your balloon. This is because the colder temperature causes the reaction to take place more slowly, releasing the gas less effectively.

With science, the learning never stops; you can always change an experiment a little bit and get a completely different result! What if you used hot water instead of an ice bath? What if you used lemon juice instead of vinegar? What if you changed the size of the balloons? Whatever you do, make sure you only make one change at a time and leave all other factors the same...then conduct your experiment and record your results!

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Simple & Fun: Baking Soda and Vinegar Balloons

These baking soda and vinegar balloons were so much fun! Mix everything together and watch as the reaction creates carbon dioxide and inflates the balloons! As far as science experiments go, this is a pretty simple one. You probably have all of the materials needed for it at home already!

HOW YOU DO IT:

• Use a funnel to add 1/3 cup baking soda to the inside of a balloon.
• Fill a plastic bottle with approximately 1 cup vinegar.
• Attach the balloon to the mouth of the plastic bottle, then lift the balloon upright so the baking soda falls and causes the reaction.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND IT:

So how does it work? The vinegar and the baking soda mix together to make an acid-base reaction. The reaction creates carbon dioxide gas that bubbles up from the mixture. The gas expands up and out of the bottle and inflates the balloon.

Another cool thing about these balloons is that carbon dioxide is heavier than air, so when you drop the balloon, you’ll notice that it falls to the ground faster than a regular balloon filled with air! (So no, these balloons definitely don’t float!)

Stretch the opening of the balloon over the end of the funnel. Pour about 1/3 cup of baking soda into the funnel and shake it around a bit until it all falls through the funnel and into the balloon. Just make sure you hang onto the balloon opening so it doesn’t fall off the funnel.

Rinse all the baking soda off the funnel (or you’ll get fizzing), and then use the funnel to pour the vinegar into a soda or water bottle. I didn’t measure the vinegar, but it was about 1/3 of the soda bottle full, or if you are using a smaller water bottle, fill it up half way. It was approximately 1 cup of vinegar.

Gently stretch the opening of the balloon over the opening of the bottle. Make sure the balloon is draping down at the side to keep the baking soda from falling in.

Lift the balloon so that it is completely upright allowing all of the baking soda to fall into the vinegar.

The balloon seemed to be on the bottle pretty snugly, but I’d still recommend pinching it onto the bottle opening the whole time. The last thing you want is for it to pop off!

As soon as the chemical reaction began, the balloon started to inflate! The more vinegar and baking soda you use, the bigger your balloon will get!

The students had a blast inflating these balloons!

Share your Baking Soda and Vinegar Balloons!

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Balloon Vinegar Baking Soda Experiment for Kids

How can our kids do a balloon vinegar baking soda experiment ? Does it take tremendous lung capacity to blow up a big balloon? Yes, it does. You have a party at home, but you feel lazy to empty your lungs out into all those balloons. Your search for an easier way to blow up balloons ends here.

In the balloon vinegar baking soda experiment, you will learn about the reactions between vinegar and baking soda. You will also learn about the gas produced when combining vinegar and baking soda .

Materials required

Balloon – 1 Bottle with small round opening – 1 Vinegar – 1 cup Baking Soda – 2 tablespoons Funnel – 1

Steps to follow

• Take the balloon, and blow it slightly so as to make some space inside.
• Using the funnel, put the baking soda into the balloon.
• Pour the vinegar in the bottle.
• Now attach the balloon to the opening of the balloon in such a way that it fits closely, without leaving any gap.
• Hold the balloon up so that the baking soda falls into the vinegar inside the bottle.
• Wait for a few minutes. You will see the balloon slowly starting to blow up. Magic, isn’t it?

What we learn

So, what do we learn from the balloon vinegar baking soda experiment? For understanding this, let us have a look at the ingredients that we added to the bottle. Vinegar inside the bottle is an acid, and baking soda added from the balloon is a base. When they mix together, sodium acetate and carbonic acid are formed. This carbonic acid separates into carbon dioxide and water. So there is a build-up of carbon dioxide gas inside the bottle. As this gas expands and rises out of the bottle, it causes the balloon to blow up. So it was no magic after all. A simple trick that you can try and amaze the little ones at home.

For more experiments and fun-to-do activities, visit our Experiments section .

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Baking Soda Science Experiments for Kids

The Wonderful World of Baking Soda: A Science Experiment for Kids

Baking soda is a common household ingredient that can be used for more than just baking. It’s also a great tool for science experiments! In this blog post, we’ll explore some fun and easy baking soda experiments that you can do at home.

What is Baking Soda?

Baking soda is a chemical compound called sodium bicarbonate. It’s a white powder that is often used as a leavening agent in baking. When baking soda is mixed with an acid, it releases carbon dioxide gas, which causes the batter to rise.

Experiment 1: The Volcano Eruption

This classic experiment is a fun way to demonstrate the chemical reaction that occurs when baking soda is mixed with vinegar.

• Baking soda
• A small container (like a plastic cup or bottle)
• Modeling clay
• Red food coloring (optional)

Instructions

• Shape the modeling clay into a volcano shape around the container. Make sure there’s a small opening at the top of the volcano.
• Pour a few tablespoons of baking soda into the container.
• Add a few drops of red food coloring to the vinegar (optional).
• Carefully pour the vinegar into the container. Watch as the mixture bubbles and foams, creating a volcano eruption!

Experiment 2: The Magic Balloon

This experiment shows how baking soda can be used to inflate a balloon without blowing into it.

• A small bottle or container
• A funnel (optional)
• Pour a few tablespoons of baking soda into the balloon.
• Pour a few tablespoons of vinegar into the bottle or container.
• Carefully stretch the balloon over the mouth of the bottle or container, making sure the baking soda falls into the vinegar.
• Watch as the balloon inflates!

Experiment 3: The Rainbow Density Tower

This experiment demonstrates the concept of density and how different liquids separate based on their weight.

• Vegetable oil
• Red, yellow, and blue food coloring
• A tall, clear glass or jar
• Add a few drops of red food coloring to the water.
• Add a few drops of yellow food coloring to the dish soap.
• Add a few drops of blue food coloring to the vegetable oil.
• Carefully pour the liquids into the glass or jar in this order: vegetable oil, dish soap, water. Make sure to pour each liquid slowly so that it doesn’t mix with the others.
• Add a pinch of baking soda to the top of the oil layer. Watch as the baking soda sinks through the layers until it reaches the water, where it will fizz and create a rainbow effect!

Safety Tips

• Always supervise children when they are doing science experiments.
• Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes.
• Use baking soda and vinegar in a well-ventilated area.
• Don’t eat or drink anything that has been used in the experiments.

These are just a few examples of fun and educational baking soda experiments that you can do at home. With a little bit of creativity, you can use baking soda to teach children about science in a fun and engaging way.

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100 Last-Day-of-School Activities Your Students Will Love!

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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7 Scientific Method Steps to Teach Your Kids

Read stories how our founder Albert turned his childhood passion into CircuitMess, and get exciting DIY project ideas you can do with your kids at home for free.

Table of content

What’s the best way for kids to learn engineering skills?

It's through the scientific method! This hands-on approach helps kids make an educated guess, try out a science experiment, and build strong critical thinking skills.

Not only does it make science fun, but it also gives kids the tools to understand and explore the world around them.

Keep reading to find out how you can turn your child into a little scientist with seven simple steps!

Why teaching the scientific method is important for kids

Teaching the scientific method to kids is super important because it helps them understand the world in a fun and organized way.

When kids do science experiments, they learn to ask questions, watch what happens, and think about the results.

This step-by-step scientific process boosts their problem-solving skills and makes them curious about everything.

Knowing the scientific method gives kids the confidence to tackle their next science experiment with excitement, turning them into little explorers ready to learn and discover new things.

What is the scientific method?

The scientific method is a step-by-step way of figuring things out.

It starts with making observations and asking questions about what you see.

Then, you come up with a scientific hypothesis—a smart guess about what might happen.

Next, you test your guess with a simple science experiment to see if you were right.

Finally, you look at the results and decide what they mean.

This method helps kids learn how to think carefully and solve problems, making science both fun and understandable.

Definition of the scientific method

The scientific method is a systematic approach used to investigate observations, solve problems, and test hypotheses.

It involves several steps:

making observations

forming a scientific hypothesis

conducting experiments

collecting data

drawing conclusions

According to Britannica , the scientific method "is a method of research in which a problem is identified, relevant data are gathered, a hypothesis is formulated, and the hypothesis is empirically tested".

TechTarget adds that it is "a method of investigation involving experimentation and observation to acquire new knowledge, solve problems, and answer questions".

This process helps ensure that findings are reliable and can be repeated by others.

The importance of learning the scientific method early

Learning the scientific method early sets kids up for success in many areas. It helps them approach problems methodically and think critically.

When kids work on a science fair project or try simple science experiments at home, they practice observing, hypothesizing, and testing.

These skills are not only useful in science class but in everyday life too.

Early exposure also sparks curiosity, making it easier for kids to come up with their own experiment ideas and confidently carry out each experiment.

This foundation in the scientific method encourages lifelong learning and problem-solving.

How to teach the scientific method to your kids — in 7 steps

Ready to turn your kids into little scientists? Teaching them the scientific method can be fun and rewarding.

It's all about making observations, asking questions, and testing ideas through experiments.

Whether it's for a science fair project or just exploring the world around them, these seven steps will guide you and your kids through the process.

From making simple observations to sharing their exciting findings, each step is an adventure in learning and discovery.

Let’s check out these seven easy steps to help your kids master the scientific method!

Step 1: Make observations

The first step in the scientific method is making observations. Encourage your kids to look closely at the world around them.

This could be anything from watching ants on the sidewalk to noticing how plants grow towards the light. Observations are the starting point for any scientific investigation.

By paying attention to details, kids learn to ask questions and become curious about how things work.

Simple activities like nature walks, observing the night sky, or even watching ice melt can spark their interest and set the stage for their next science experiment.

Encouraging kids to observe their surroundings

Helping young kids become keen observers of their surroundings is easier than you might think.

Start by taking them outside and exploring the natural world together. Point out different plants, animals, and weather patterns.

Ask questions like, "What do you see?" or "How does that feel?" This not only piques their curiosity but also enhances their observation skills.

For elementary school kids, you can turn these observations into fun activities. Have them draw what they see, keep a nature journal, or take pictures of interesting things they find.

Encouraging kids to notice the details in their environment lays a strong foundation for their scientific journey.

Simple observation activities

Getting kids to observe their surroundings can be both fun and educational with these simple activities:

Nature walks : Take a walk in a park or your backyard. Ask your kids to note down or draw the different plants, insects, and animals they see. Discuss their colors, shapes, and behaviors.

Weather journal : Have your kids keep a daily weather journal. They can record the temperature, type of clouds, and any changes they notice throughout the day.

Kitchen science : Use everyday kitchen items for observations. For example, watch how sugar dissolves in water, or what happens when you mix baking soda and vinegar.

Star gazing : On a clear night, look at the stars and moon. Use a simple star chart to identify constellations and track the moon’s phases.

Plant growth : Plant seeds in a pot and observe their growth over time. Encourage your kids to measure the height of the plants and note changes in leaves and flowers.

These activities help young learners engage with their environment, fostering natural curiosity and setting the stage for more detailed scientific exploration.

Step 2: Formulate questions

Once your kids have made their observations, the next step is to start asking questions. This is where their curiosity really comes into play.

Encourage them to think about why things happen the way they do. Why do leaves change color in the fall? How does the sun affect plant growth?

These questions are the seeds of scientific inquiry and lead to deeper understanding.

By guiding your kids to formulate thoughtful questions, you help them move from just observing the world to exploring it in a meaningful way.

This step is crucial in their journey through the scientific method.

Guiding kids to ask scientific questions

Helping kids ask the right questions is key to sparking their scientific curiosity. Start by encouraging them to think about what they’ve observed and what they’re curious about. Here are some tips to guide them:

Start with "Why" and "How" : Prompt them with questions like, "Why do you think that happened?" or "How does this work?" These open-ended questions lead to deeper thinking.

Be Curious Together : Show your own interest in their observations. Ask questions alongside them to model how to be inquisitive.

Encourage Specificity : Help them focus their questions. Instead of asking, "Why is the sky blue?" guide them to something more specific like, "How does the sky’s color change at sunset?"

Relate to Everyday Life : Connect questions to their daily experiences. For example, "Why does ice melt faster in warm water?" relates to what they see in their drinks.

Use What If Scenarios : Encourage imaginative thinking with "What if" questions, like "What if plants didn’t get sunlight?" This helps them think about cause and effect.

By guiding kids to ask scientific questions , you’re helping them develop critical skill that will fuel their experiments and discoveries.

Examples of testable questions

How does sunlight affect plant growth?

What type of food attracts the most ants?

Does the temperature of water affect how fast sugar dissolves?

Which materials make the best insulators?

How does the type of liquid affect the rate of evaporation?

What is the effect of different types of music on plant growth?

How do different surfaces affect the speed of a rolling toy car?

Does the amount of baking soda change the reaction rate in a vinegar and baking soda experiment?

Step 3: Develop a hypothesis

After asking their scientific questions, the next step is to develop a hypothesis. A hypothesis is an educated guess about what they think will happen in their experiment.

This prediction helps guide their investigation and makes the scientific process more engaging.

Encouraging your kids to make a hypothesis sharpens their critical thinking skills and prepares them for the experiments ahead.

What is a hypothesis?

A hypothesis is an educated guess about what might happen in an experiment. According to Merriam-Webster , a hypothesis is an assumption or concession made for the sake of argument" or "a tentative assumption made in order to draw out and test its logical or empirical consequences".

The BBC explains that a hypothesis "is an idea that you can test which explains what you think will happen in an experiment".

It's a crucial part of the scientific method because it gives a clear direction for the investigation and helps scientists predict the outcome based on their observations and knowledge.

How to formulate a hypothesis

1. Start with a question : Begin with the scientific question they want to answer. For example, "How does sunlight affect plant growth?"

2. Make an educated guess : Based on what they already know, have them make a prediction. For example, "If a plant gets more sunlight, then it will grow taller."

3. Use an "If, Then" statement : Encourage them to frame their hypothesis as an "If, then" statement. For example, "If a plant is exposed to more sunlight, then it will grow taller."

4. Be specific and testable : Ensure the hypothesis is clear and can be tested through an experiment. Avoid vague or broad predictions.

5. Relate to their observations : Have them use their initial observations to make a more informed guess. This helps ground their hypothesis in what they've already noticed.

Step 4: Conduct experiments

With a hypothesis in hand, it's time to conduct experiments. This is where the fun begins! Kids get to test their guesses through hands-on activities, learning to gather data and observe outcomes.

Conducting experiments teaches valuable skills like patience, attention to detail, and following procedures. This step is essential for validating their hypotheses and understanding the scientific process.

Designing simple experiments

1. Keep It simple : Choose experiments that are easy to understand and perform, using everyday materials.

2. Clear steps : Outline the steps clearly so kids know exactly what to do. This helps them stay organized and focused.

3. Control variables : Teach kids to change only one variable at a time while keeping everything else the same. This helps them see the effects of that one change.

4. Repeat trials : Encourage them to repeat the experiment a few times to ensure the results are consistent.

5. Safety first : Always prioritize safety and supervise experiments to make sure kids are conducting them safely.

Step-by-step instructions for basic experiments

1. Plant growth and sunlight

Materials : Two small potted plants, a sunny spot, a dark spot, water.

Place one plant in a sunny spot and the other in a dark spot.

Water both plants equally every day.

Observe and record their growth over two weeks.

Compare the height and health of the plants.

2. Dissolving sugar in water

Materials : Sugar, warm water, cold water, two clear glasses, a spoon.

Fill one glass with warm water and the other with cold water.

Add a teaspoon of sugar to each glass.

Stir each glass and observe how quickly the sugar dissolves.

Record the time it takes for the sugar to dissolve in each glass.

3. Baking soda and vinegar reaction

Materials : Baking soda, vinegar, a small container, a balloon.

Pour a few tablespoons of vinegar into the container.

Add a spoonful of baking soda quickly.

Immediately place the balloon over the mouth of the container.

Observe the balloon inflating as the baking soda reacts with the vinegar.

Step 5: Record results

Recording results is crucial in the scientific method. Encourage kids to write down their observations and data during experiments.

This helps them analyze and draw conclusions accurately. Keeping good records also reinforces learning and makes science more rewarding.

The importance of recording observations and data

Recording observations and data is essential in any experiment. It helps kids keep track of what happens during their experiments, ensuring they have accurate information to analyze later.

This practice teaches them attention to detail and the importance of accuracy. Good records make it easier to see patterns, compare results, and draw meaningful conclusions, turning each experiment into a valuable learning experience.

Creative ways to record results

Science journals : Encourage kids to keep a dedicated science journal where they can write and draw their observations.

Charts and graphs : Help them create colorful charts and graphs to visualize their data.

Photo documentation : Take pictures of each experiment step and the results, then create a photo diary.

Video logs : Record video logs explaining what they did and what they observed.

Art projects : Turn results into art projects, like drawing the growth of a plant or making a collage of different materials tested.

Step 6: Draw conclusions

After recording the results, it's time to draw conclusions. Encourage kids to look at their data and see if it matches their hypothesis.

Did the experiment go as expected? Why or why not?

This step helps kids understand their findings and learn from the process, making science more meaningful.

Interpreting data and drawing conclusions

Help kids review their data and ask, "What do these results show?" and "Does this support your hypothesis?"

Guide them to think about why the results turned out the way they did. This teaches critical thinking and the importance of evidence in science.

How to verify results

Verifying results is crucial to ensure accuracy. Encourage kids to repeat their experiments to see if they get the same results each time.

This helps confirm their findings and teaches them the importance of consistency and reliability in science.

Step 7: Share findings

The final step in the scientific method is sharing findings. Encourage kids to present their results and conclusions to others.

This could be through a report, a presentation, or even a show-and-tell session.

Sharing findings helps kids improve their communication skills and allows them to celebrate their hard work and discoveries.

It also inspires others to be curious and conduct their own experiments.

The importance of sharing scientific results

Sharing scientific results is a key part of the learning process. It helps kids develop communication skills and boosts their confidence.

By explaining their experiments and findings to others, they reinforce their own understanding and inspire curiosity in their peers.

Sharing results also allows for feedback and new ideas, fostering a collaborative spirit in scientific exploration.

Fun ways for kids to present their findings

1. Science fair : Participate in a school or community science fair to showcase their project.

2. Posters : Create colorful posters with drawings, photos, and charts to explain their experiment.

3. Presentations : Use tools like PowerPoint or Google Slides to make a digital presentation.

4. Show-and-tell : Have a show-and-tell session at school or with family to explain their findings.

5. Videos : Record a video explaining their experiment and results, and share it with friends and family.

6. Science blogs : Start a simple blog where they can post their experiments and results.

Create a little scientist with CirucuitMess kits

By teaching your kids the scientific method through fun and engaging activities, you're setting them up for a lifetime of curiosity and learning.

From making observations to sharing their findings, each step helps them build important skills. CircuitMess STEM kits are the perfect tool to support this journey.

These kits provide all the materials and guidance needed to conduct exciting science experiments, develop critical thinking, and foster a love for discovery.

Ready to turn your child into a little scientist?

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50 Fun Kids Science Experiments

Science doesn’t need to be complicated. These easy science experiments below are awesome for kids! They are visually stimulating, hands-on, and sensory-rich, making them fun to do and perfect for teaching simple science concepts at home or in the classroom.

Top 10 Science Experiments

Click on the titles below for the full supplies list and easy step-by-step instructions. Have fun trying these experiments at home or in the classroom, or even use them for your next science fair project!

Baking Soda Balloon Experiment

Can you make a balloon inflate on its own? Grab a few basic kitchen ingredients and test them out! Try amazing chemistry for kids at your fingertips.

Rainbow In A Jar

Enjoy learning about the basics of color mixing up to the density of liquids with this simple water density experiment . There are even more ways to explore rainbows here with walking water, prisms, and more.

This color-changing magic milk experiment will explode your dish with color. Add dish soap and food coloring to milk for cool chemistry!

Seed Germination Experiment

Not all kids’ science experiments involve chemical reactions. Watch how a seed grows , which provides a window into the amazing field of biology .

Egg Vinegar Experiment

One of our favorite science experiments is a naked egg or rubber egg experiment . Can you make your egg bounce? What happened to the shell?

Dancing Corn

Find out how to make corn dance with this easy experiment. Also, check out our dancing raisins and dancing cranberries.

Grow Crystals

Growing borax crystals is easy and a great way to learn about solutions. You could also grow sugar crystals , eggshell geodes , or salt crystals .

Lava Lamp Experiment

It is great for learning about what happens when you mix oil and water. a homemade lava lamp is a cool science experiment kids will want to do repeatedly!

Skittles Experiment

Who doesn’t like doing science with candy? Try this classic Skittles science experiment and explore why the colors don’t mix when added to water.

Lemon Volcano

Watch your kids’ faces light up, and their eyes widen when you test out cool chemistry with a lemon volcano using common household items, baking soda, and vinegar.

Bonus! Popsicle Stick Catapult

Kid tested, STEM approved! Making a popsicle stick catapult is a fantastic way to dive into hands-on physics and engineering.

Grab the handy Top 10 Science Experiments list here!

Free Science Ideas Guide

Grab this free science experiments challenge calendar and have fun with science right away. Use the clickable links to see how to set up each science project.

Get Started With A Science Fair Project

💡Want to turn one of these fun and easy science experiments into a science fair project? Then, you will want to check out these helpful resources.

• Easy Science Fair Projects
• Science Project Tips From A Teacher
• Science Fair Board Ideas

50 Easy Science Experiments For Kids

Kids’ Science Experiments By Topic

Are you looking for a specific topic? Check out these additional resources below. Each topic includes easy-to-understand information, everyday examples, and additional hands-on activities and experiments.

• Chemistry Experiments
• Physics Experiments
• Chemical Reaction Experiments
• Candy Experiments
• Plant Experiments
• Kitchen Science
• Water Experiments
• Baking Soda Experiments
• States Of Matter Experiments
• Physical Change Experiments
• Chemical Change Experiments
• Surface Tension Experiments
• Capillary Action Experiments
• Weather Science Projects
• Geology Science Projects
• Space Activities
• Simple Machines
• Static Electricity
• Potential and Kinetic Energy
• Gravity Experiments

Science Experiments By Season

• Spring Science
• Summer Science Experiments
• Fall Science Experiments
• Winter Science Experiments

Science Experiments by Age Group

While many experiments can be performed by various age groups, the best science experiments for specific age groups are listed below.

• Science Activities For Toddlers
• Preschool Science Experiments
• Kindergarten Science Experiments
• First Grade Science Projects
• Elementary Science Projects
• Science Projects For 3rd Graders
• Science Experiments For Middle Schoolers

How To Teach Science

Kids are curious and always looking to explore, discover, check out, and experiment to discover why things do what they do, move as they move, or change as they change! My son is now 13, and we started with simple science activities around three years of age with simple baking soda science.

Here are great tips for making science experiments enjoyable at home or in the classroom.

Safety first: Always prioritize safety. Use kid-friendly materials, supervise the experiments, and handle potentially hazardous substances yourself.

Start with simple experiments: Begin with basic experiments (find tons below) that require minimal setup and materials, gradually increasing complexity as kids gain confidence.

Use everyday items: Utilize common household items like vinegar and baking soda , food coloring, or balloons to make the experiments accessible and cost-effective.

Hands-on approach: Encourage kids to actively participate in the experiments rather than just observing. Let them touch, mix, and check out reactions up close.

Make predictions: Ask kids to predict the outcome before starting an experiment. This stimulates critical thinking and introduces the concept of hypothesis and the scientific method.

Record observations: Have a science journal or notebook where kids can record their observations, draw pictures, and write down their thoughts. Learn more about observing in science. We also have many printable science worksheets .

Theme-based experiments: Organize experiments around a theme, such as water , air , magnets , or plants . Even holidays and seasons make fun themes!

Kitchen science : Perform experiments in the kitchen, such as making ice cream using salt and ice or learning about density by layering different liquids.

Create a science lab: Set up a dedicated space for science experiments, and let kids decorate it with science-themed posters and drawings.

Outdoor experiments: Take some experiments outside to explore nature, study bugs, or learn about plants and soil.

DIY science kits: Prepare science experiment kits with labeled containers and ingredients, making it easy for kids to conduct experiments independently. Check out our DIY science list and STEM kits.

Make it a group effort: Group experiments can be more fun, allowing kids to learn together and share their excitement. Most of our science activities are classroom friendly!

Science shows or documentaries: Watch age-appropriate science shows or documentaries to introduce kids to scientific concepts entertainingly. Hello Bill Nye and the Magic Schoolbus! You can also check out National Geographic, the Discovery Channel, and NASA!

Ask open-ended questions: Encourage critical thinking by asking open-ended questions that prompt kids to think deeper about what they are experiencing.

Celebrate successes: Praise kids for their efforts and discoveries, no matter how small, to foster a positive attitude towards science and learning.

What is the Scientific Method for Kids?

The scientific method is a way scientists figure out how things work. First, they ask a question about something they want to know. Then, they research to learn what’s already known about it. After that, they make a prediction called a hypothesis.

Next comes the fun part – they test their hypothesis by doing experiments. They carefully observe what happens during the experiments and write down all the details. Learn more about variables in experiments here.

Once they finish their experiments, they look at the results and decide if their hypothesis is right or wrong. If it’s wrong, they devise a new hypothesis and try again. If it’s right, they share their findings with others. That’s how scientists learn new things and make our world better!

Go ahead and introduce the scientific method and get kids started recording their observations and making conclusions. Read more about the scientific method for kids .

Engineering and STEM Projects For Kids

STEM activities include science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In addition to our kids’ science experiments, we have lots of fun STEM activities for you to try. Check out these STEM ideas below.

• Building Activities
• Self-Propelling Car Projects
• Engineering Projects For Kids
• What Is Engineering For Kids?
• Lego STEM Ideas
• LEGO Engineering Activities
• STEM Activities For Toddlers
• STEM Worksheets
• Easy STEM Activities For Elementary
• Quick STEM Challenges
• Easy STEM Activities With Paper  

Printable Science Projects For Kids

If you’re looking to grab all of our printable science projects in one convenient place plus exclusive worksheets and bonuses like a STEAM Project pack, our Science Project Pack is what you need! Over 300+ Pages!

• 90+ classic science activities  with journal pages, supply lists, set up and process, and science information.  NEW! Activity-specific observation pages!
• Best science practices posters  and our original science method process folders for extra alternatives!
• Be a Collector activities pack  introduces kids to the world of making collections through the eyes of a scientist. What will they collect first?
• Know the Words Science vocabulary pack  includes flashcards, crosswords, and word searches that illuminate keywords in the experiments!
• My science journal writing prompts  explore what it means to be a scientist!!
• Bonus STEAM Project Pack:  Art meets science with doable projects!
• Bonus Quick Grab Packs for Biology, Earth Science, Chemistry, and Physics

Subscribe to receive a free 5-Day STEM Challenge Guide

~ projects to try now ~.