🌋 Ketchup Volcano Science Experiment

You’ve probably tried the classic volcano experiment. But have you tried a ketchup volcano? This easy volcano experiment is super simple to make and makes a super cool, red erruption that will delight kids of all ages! Try this simple volcano experiment with preschool, pre-k, kindergarten, first grade, 2nd grade, and 3rd graders too.

Ketchup Volcano

Get ready to take your volcano science project to the next level with catsup! This ketchup volcano only requires 4 ingredients to make an EPIC erruption at home, in the classroom, or in your homeschool coop. The secret – ketchup is made with vinegar which causes the ketchup and baking soda volcano to errupt through a simple chemical reaction. Whether you are studying earth science or just want an outrageously cool chemistry science experiment, you’ve got to try this easy volcano experiment. This homemade volcano experiment is perfect for preschoolers, kindergartners, grade 1, grade 2, and grade 3 students too.

Volcano Experiment

All you need to complete this fun science project for kids are a few simple supplies you probably already have on hand.

plastic cup
newspaper, tape, clay, and paint to make a volcano – this can be as simple or involved as you like!)
1 generous cup ketchup
1 squirt dish soap
1/2 cup water
2 Tablespoons baking soda

Easy Volcano Experiment

Start by making your volcano with the plastic cup in the center. You can use anything you have on hand -the experiment will work no matter how involved or simple your volcano looks.

In a cup mix ketchup, dish soap, and water. Pour it into the plastic cup in your volcano.

Simple volcano experiment

Add baking soda and watch the erruption occur!

Homemade volcano experiment

The red ketchup makes the lava and eruption look like the real deal!

Ketchup and Baking Soda Volcano

So why does this work? Ketchup is made with vinegar, which reacts with the baking soda to make carbon diosixed gas. The gas gets trapped in the soap which createds a bubbly volcano.

Summer Fun

Looking for more outdoor activities for kids and things to do in the summer? Your toddler, preschool, pre k, kindergarten, and elementary age kids will love these fun ideas to keep them busy all summer long: