Chemistry is a blast with this backyard bomb...made from a simple sandwich bag. All you need are a few ingredients from the pantry to create a satisfying and safe explosion.
Kids get an early introduction to the wonders of chemistry, by watching what happens when vinegar and baking soda react. The carbon dioxide created by mixing these everyday ingredients fills the bag until there's no more room for expansion, then explodes with a dramatic boom.
Before you begin this experiment, write out the question(s) you hope to answer by completing the zip loc bag explosion.
Next, write out your hypothesis. What do you think is going to happen?
Materials:
paper towels
sandwich bag that seals completely, and has no holes (like a Ziplock)
1/2 cup white vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoons baking soda
1/4 cup warm water
scissors
a clear outdoor area
Procedure:
Draw a square measuring about 5-6 inches on each side onto a paper towel. Cut it out.
Measure out the baking soda and scoop it into the middle of the towel. Fold the towel inwards on four sides, so you have a little packet of powder. The powder should be contained inside. Mix the vinegar and warm water together, then pour it into the sandwich bag. Take the paper towel packet you've just made drop it quickly but carefully into the bag, then immediately seal it closed. Standing in your outdoor area, shake the bag a bit. Then put it on the ground and stand clear!
Get ready to see chemistry in motion!
You aren't done yet! Finally, write our your results and your conclusion.
A note from the teachers: This is meant to be an inquiry based on your interests. You may adapt this experiment by adding variables (change) to your experiment. Don't forget to add the changes you made to your experiment to your grade specific scientific process write up.
Standard 1: Physical Science
Apply an understanding of atomic and molecular structure to explain the properties of matter, and predict outcomes of chemical and nuclear reactions
Grades 1, 3, and 5
