Exploding Toothpaste?!

By Adeline Duncan

Most of us love science for the interesting topics and fun experiments that it brings to the table. Ms. Webb, our science teacher, says “Elephant toothpaste is the easiest experiment to do from home.” We’ve all heard of elephant toothpaste at some point because of its huge explosions and world records. After some sleuthing, I found out that elephant toothpaste is completely safe when using this formula:

First, get your parents’ permission. If they agree:

Place your plastic bottle on your baking tray to catch the overflow.

Add the vinegar to the bottle.

Then add your dish soap, making sure to swish the ingredients until they’re fully mixed.

Add a few drops of food coloring around the top of the bottle.

Put your baking soda in and watch the magic happen!

This is a fun and easy experiment to do at home that’s great for all ages. It can get a bit messy, so make sure your parents are okay with it

Ingredients

• 1 plastic bottle

• 1 large baking tray

• Toothpicks

• 1/2 cup of vinegar

• 10 droplets of dish soap

• Food coloring

• 1 T baking soda