Participants
Unlimited
Age Range
6 years old
Description
Countertop chemistry experiment that can be used for potions class.
Supplies
1 1000-mL beaker (or 1 glass mixing bowl)
10 g sodium hydrogen carbonate (or 3 Tsp baking soda)
45 mL 3% acetic acid (or 4-5 Tbsp vinegar)
10 2-cm pieces of vermacelli
Water
Instructions
Fill a clear container 3/4 full with water. Add the sodium hydrogen carbonate (or baking soda) and stir to dissolve.
Break the vermicelli into 2-cm (1-inch) pieces and add them to the container.
Add the acetic acid (vinegar). If the vermicelli does not begin to “dance” after a few minutes, add more sodium hydrogen carbonate and acetic acid.
If possible, substitute raisins or mothballs (or popcorn and rice) for the vermicelli to see what dances best.
