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How to Build an Erupting Volcano Cross-Section

See a model volcano explode from the inside. Make a cross section of a volcano with clear sides so you can watch the lava flow up the conduit, before it spills over the sides. This is an easy, exciting science project for elementary students. It would also make a fun, messy outdoor summer learning project. For the truly adventurous, erupting volcanoes make a fascinating centerpiece for a dinosaur-themed birthday party.

Things You'll Need

  • 1.5 oz. clear bottle with flat sides
  • Tablespoon
  • Baking soda
  • Gray modeling clay
  • Plastic drinking straw
  • Disposable pie plate
  • Brown modeling clay
  • Red washable marker (optional)
  • Liquid measuring cup
  • Vinegar
  • Red food coloring
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pour 1 tbsp. of baking soda into a 1.5 oz. clear glass bottle with flat sides, such as an extract bottle.

    • 2

      Cover the top 3 inches of the bottle with a thin layer of gray modeling clay.

    • 3

      Use a plastic drinking straw to scrape a thin path through the clay down the center of both flat sides of the bottle so you can see the glass. This will represent the conduit for the lava. Scraping both sides allows light to show through.

    • 4

      Place the bottle in the center of the pie plate and add a layer of brown clay on each side of the bottle without covering the flat sides of the glass. The brown clay represents the Earth's crust. The clear glass opening at the bottom represents the magma chamber. You may color it red with a marker washable marker, if desired.

    • 5

      Add gray clay to the sides of the bottle over the brown clay to represent the side of the volcano.

    • 6

      Mix a drop of food coloring into 2 tbsp.. of vinegar.

    • 7

      Pour the vinegar into the bottle to make the volcano erupt.

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