chemistry experiments to try

68 Best Chemistry Experiments: Learn About Chemical Reactions

Whether you’re a student eager to explore the wonders of chemical reactions or a teacher seeking to inspire and engage your students, we’ve compiled a curated list of the top 68 chemistry experiments so you can learn about chemical reactions.

While the theories and laws governing chemistry can sometimes feel abstract, experiments bridge the gap between these concepts and their tangible manifestations. These experiments provide hands-on experiences illuminating the intricacies of chemical reactions, molecular structures, and elemental properties.

1. Covalent Bonds

By engaging in activities that demonstrate the formation and properties of covalent bonds, students can grasp the significance of these bonds in holding atoms together and shaping the world around us.

Learn more: Covalent Bonds

2. Sulfuric Acid and Sugar Demonstration

Through this experiment, students can develop a deeper understanding of chemical properties, appreciate the power of chemical reactions, and ignite their passion for scientific exploration.

3. Make Hot Ice at Home

Making hot ice at home is a fascinating chemistry experiment that allows students to witness the captivating transformation of a liquid into a solid with a surprising twist.

4. Make a Bouncing Polymer Ball

This hands-on activity not only allows students to explore the fascinating properties of polymers but also encourages experimentation and creativity.

Learn more: Thought Co

5. Diffusion Watercolor Art

This experiment offers a wonderful opportunity for students to explore the properties of pigments, observe how they interact with water, and discover the mesmerizing patterns and textures that emerge.

Learn more: Diffusion Watercolor Art

6. Exploding Baggie

The exploding baggie experiment is a captivating and dynamic demonstration that students should engage in with caution and under the supervision of a qualified instructor.

Learn more: Exploding Baggie

7. Color Changing Chemistry Clock

This experiment not only engages students in the world of chemical kinetics but also introduces them to the concept of a chemical clock, where the color change acts as a timekeeping mechanism.

Learn more: Color Changing Chemistry Clock

8. Pipe Cleaner Crystal Trees

By adjusting the concentration of the Borax solution or experimenting with different pipe cleaner arrangements, students can customize their crystal trees and observe how it affects the growth patterns.

Learn more: Pipe Cleaner Crystal Trees

9. How To Make Ice Sculptures

Through this experiment, students gain a deeper understanding of the physical and chemical changes that occur when water freezes and melts.

Learn more: Ice Sculpture

10. How to Make Paper

Through this hands-on activity, students gain a deeper understanding of the properties of cellulose fibers and the transformative power of chemical reactions.

Learn more: How to Make Paper

11. Color Changing Chemistry

Color changing chemistry is an enchanting experiment that offers a captivating blend of science and art. Students should embark on this colorful journey to witness the mesmerizing transformations of chemicals and explore the principles of chemical reactions.

12. Gassy Banana

The gassy banana experiment is a fun and interactive way for students to explore the principles of chemical reactions and gas production.

Learn more: Gassy Banana

13. Gingerbread Man Chemistry Experiment

This hands-on activity not only introduces students to the concepts of chemical leavening and heat-induced reactions but also allows for creativity in decorating and personalizing their gingerbread creations.

Learn more: Gingerbread Man Chemistry Experiment

14. Make Amortentia Potion

While the love potion is fictional, this activity offers a chance to explore the art of potion-making and the chemistry behind it.

Learn more: How to Make Amortentia Potion

15. Strawberry DNA Extraction

This hands-on experiment offers a unique opportunity to observe DNA, the building blocks of life, up close and learn about its structure and properties.

16. Melting Snowman

The melting snowman experiment is a fun and whimsical activity that allows students to explore the principles of heat transfer and phase changes.

Learn more: Melting Snowman

17. Acid Base Cabbage Juice

The acid-base cabbage juice experiment is an engaging and colorful activity that allows students to explore the pH scale and the properties of acids and bases.

By extracting the purple pigment from red cabbage leaves and creating cabbage juice, students can use this natural indicator to identify and differentiate between acidic and basic substances.

Learn more: Acid Base Cabbage Juice

18. Magic Milk

The magic milk experiment is a mesmerizing and educational activity that allows students to explore the concepts of surface tension and chemical reactions.

By adding drops of different food colors to a dish of milk and then introducing a small amount of dish soap, students can witness a captivating display of swirling colors and patterns.

Learn more: Magic Milk

19. Melting Ice with Salt and Water

Through this hands-on activity, students can gain a deeper understanding of the science behind de-icing and how different substances can influence the physical properties of water.

Learn more: Melting Ice with Salt and Water

20. Barking Dog Chemistry Demonstration

The barking dog chemistry demonstration is an exciting and visually captivating experiment that showcases the principles of combustion and gas production.

21. How to Make Egg Geodes

Making egg geodes is a fascinating and creative chemistry experiment that students should try. By using common materials like eggshells, salt, and food coloring, students can create their own beautiful geode-like crystals.

Learn more: How to Make Egg Geodes

22. Make Sherbet

This experiment not only engages the taste buds but also introduces concepts of acidity, solubility, and the chemical reactions that occur when the sherbet comes into contact with moisture.

Learn more: Make Sherbet

23. Hatch a Baking Soda Dinosaur Egg

As the baking soda dries and hardens around the toy, it forms a “shell” resembling a dinosaur egg. To hatch the egg, students can pour vinegar onto the shell, causing a chemical reaction that produces carbon dioxide gas.

Learn more: Steam Powered Family

24. Chromatography Flowers

By analyzing the resulting patterns, students can gain insights into the different pigments present in flowers and the science behind their colors.

Learn more: Chromatography Flowers

25. Turn Juice Into Solid

Turning juice into a solid through gelification is an engaging and educational chemistry experiment that students should try. By exploring the transformation of a liquid into a solid, students can gain insights of chemical reactions and molecular interactions.

Learn more: Turn Juice into Solid

26. Bouncy Balls

Making bouncy balls allows students to explore the fascinating properties of polymers, such as their ability to stretch and rebound.

 27. Make a Lemon Battery

Creating a lemon battery is a captivating and hands-on experiment that allows students to explore the fundamentals of electricity and chemical reactions.

28. Mentos and Soda Project

The Mentos and soda project is a thrilling and explosive experiment that students should try. By dropping Mentos candies into a bottle of carbonated soda, an exciting eruption occurs.

29. Alkali Metal in Water

The reaction of alkali metals with water is a fascinating and visually captivating chemistry demonstration.

30. Rainbow Flame

The rainbow flame experiment is a captivating and visually stunning chemistry demonstration that students should explore.

31. Sugar Yeast Experiment

This experiment not only introduces students to the concept of fermentation but also allows them to witness the effects of a living organism, yeast, on the sugar substrate.

32. The Thermite Reaction

The thermite reaction is a highly energetic and visually striking chemical reaction that students can explore with caution and under proper supervision.

This experiment showcases the principles of exothermic reactions, oxidation-reduction, and the high temperatures that can be achieved through chemical reactions.

33. Polishing Pennies

Polishing pennies is a simple and enjoyable chemistry experiment that allows students to explore the concepts of oxidation and cleaning methods.

34. Elephant Toothpaste

The elephant toothpaste experiment is a thrilling and visually captivating chemistry demonstration that students should try with caution and under the guidance of a knowledgeable instructor.

35. Magic Potion

Creating a magic potion is an exciting and imaginative activity that allows students to explore their creativity while learning about the principles of chemistry.

36. Color Changing Acid-Base Experiment

Through the color changing acid-base experiment, students can gain a deeper understanding of chemical reactions and the role of pH in our daily lives.

Learn more: Color Changing Acid-Base Experiment

37. Fill up a Balloon

Filling up a balloon is a simple and enjoyable physics experiment that demonstrates the properties of air pressure. By blowing air into a balloon, you can observe how the balloon expands and becomes inflated.

38. Jello and Vinegar

The combination of Jello and vinegar is a fascinating and tasty chemistry experiment that demonstrates the effects of acid on a gelatin-based substance.

Learn more: Jello and Vinegar

39. Vinegar and Steel Wool Reaction

This experiment not only provides a visual demonstration of the oxidation process but also introduces students to the concept of corrosion and the role of acids in accelerating the process.

Learn more: Vinegar and Steel Wool Reaction

40. Dancing Rice

The dancing rice experiment is a captivating and educational demonstration that showcases the principles of density and buoyancy.

By pouring a small amount of uncooked rice into a clear container filled with water, students can witness the rice grains moving and “dancing” in the water.

Learn more: Dancing Rice

41. Soil Testing Garden Science

Soil testing is a valuable and informative experiment that allows students to assess the composition and properties of soil.

By collecting soil samples from different locations and analyzing them, students can gain insights into the nutrient content, pH level, and texture of the soil.

Learn more: Soil Testing Garden Science

42. Heat Sensitive Color Changing Slime

Creating heat-sensitive color-changing slime is a captivating and playful chemistry experiment that students should try.

Learn more: Left Brain Craft Brain

43. Experimenting with Viscosity

Experimenting with viscosity is an engaging and hands-on activity that allows students to explore the flow properties of liquids.

Viscosity refers to a liquid’s resistance to flow, and this experiment enables students to investigate how different factors affect viscosity.

Learn more: Experimenting with Viscosity

44. Rock Candy Science

Rock candy science is a delightful and educational chemistry experiment that students should try. By growing their own rock candy crystals, students can learn about crystal formation and explore the principles of solubility and saturation.

Learn more: Rock Candy Science

45. Baking Soda vs Baking Powder

Baking soda and baking powder have distinct properties that influence the leavening process in different ways.

This hands-on experiment provides a practical understanding of how these ingredients interact with acids and moisture to create carbon dioxide gas.

46. Endothermic and Exothermic Reactions Experiment

The endothermic and exothermic reactions experiment is an exciting and informative chemistry exploration that students should try.

By observing and comparing the heat changes in different reactions, students can gain a deeper understanding of energy transfer and the concepts of endothermic and exothermic processes.

Learn more: Education.com

47. Diaper Chemistry

By dissecting a diaper and examining its components, students can uncover the chemical processes that make diapers so effective at absorbing and retaining liquids.

Learn more: Diaper Chemistry

48. Candle Chemical Reaction

The “Flame out” experiment is an intriguing and educational chemistry demonstration that students should try. By exploring the effects of a chemical reaction on a burning candle, students can witness the captivating moment when the flame is extinguished.

49. Make Curds and Whey

This experiment not only introduces students to the concept of acid-base reactions but also offers an opportunity to explore the science behind cheese-making.

Learn more: Tinkerlab

50. Grow Crystals Overnight

By creating a supersaturated solution using substances like epsom salt, sugar, or borax, students can observe the fascinating process of crystal growth. This experiment allows students to explore the principles of solubility, saturation, and nucleation.

Learn more: Grow Crystals Overnight

51. Measure Electrolytes in Sports Drinks

The “Measure Electrolytes in Sports Drinks” experiment is an informative and practical chemistry activity that students should try.

By using simple tools like a multimeter or conductivity probe, students can measure the electrical conductivity of different sports drinks to determine their electrolyte content.

52. Oxygen and Fire Experiment

The oxygen and fire experiment is a captivating and educational chemistry demonstration that students should try. By observing the effects of oxygen on a controlled fire, students can witness the essential role of oxygen in supporting combustion.

53. Electrolysis Of Water

The electrolysis of water experiment is a captivating and educational chemistry demonstration that students should try.

Learn more: Electrolysis Of Water

54. Expanding Ivory Soap

The expanding Ivory Soap experiment is a fun and interactive chemistry activity that students should try. By placing a bar of Ivory soap in a microwave, students can witness the remarkable expansion of the soap as it heats up.

Learn more: Little Bins Little Hands

55. Glowing Fireworks

This experiment not only introduces students to the principles of pyrotechnics and combustion but also encourages observation, critical thinking, and an appreciation for the physics and chemistry behind.

Learn more: Glowing Fireworks

56. Colorful Polymer Chemistry

Colorful polymer chemistry is an exciting and vibrant experiment that students should try to explore polymers and colorants.

By combining different types of polymers with various colorants, such as food coloring or pigments, students can create a kaleidoscope of colors in their polymer creations.

Learn more: Colorful Polymer Chemistry

57. Sulfur Hexafluoride- Deep Voice Gas

This experiment provides a firsthand experience of how the density and composition of gases can influence sound transmission.

It encourages scientific curiosity, observation, and a sense of wonder as students witness the surprising transformation of their voices.

58. Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream

Liquid nitrogen ice cream is a thrilling and delicious chemistry experiment that students should try. By combining cream, sugar, and flavorings with liquid nitrogen, students can create ice cream with a unique and creamy texture.

59. White Smoke Chemistry Demonstration

The White Smoke Chemistry Demonstration provides an engaging and visually captivating experience for students to explore chemical reactions and gases. By combining hydrochloric acid and ammonia solutions, students can witness the mesmerizing formation of white smoke.

60. Nitrogen Triiodide Chemistry Demonstration

The nitrogen triiodide chemistry demonstration is a remarkable and attention-grabbing experiment that students should try under the guidance of a knowledgeable instructor.

By reacting iodine crystals with concentrated ammonia, students can precipitate nitrogen triiodide (NI3), a highly sensitive compound.

61. Make a Plastic- Milk And Vinegar Reaction Experiment

Through the “Make a Plastic – Milk and Vinegar Reaction” experiment, students can gain a deeper understanding of the chemistry behind plastics, environmental sustainability, and the potential of biodegradable materials.

Learn more: Rookie Parenting

62. Eno and Water Experiment

This experiment not only introduces students to acid-base reactions but also engages their senses as they witness the visible and audible effects of the reaction.

63. The Eternal Kettle Experiment

By filling a kettle with alcohol and igniting it, students can investigate the behavior of the alcohol flame and its sustainability.

64. Coke and Chlorine Bombs

Engaging in this experiment allows students to experience the wonders of chemistry firsthand, making it an ideal choice to ignite their curiosity and passion for scientific exploration.

65. Set your Hand on Fire

This experiment showcases the fascinating nature of combustion and the science behind fire.

By carefully following proper procedures and safety guidelines, students can witness firsthand how the sanitizer’s high alcohol content interacts with an open flame, resulting in a brief but captivating display of controlled combustion.

66. Instant Ice Experiments

The Instant Ice Experiment offers an engaging and captivating opportunity for students to explore the wonders of chemistry and phase changes.

By using simple household ingredients, students can witness the fascinating phenomenon of rapid ice formation in just a matter of seconds.

67. Coke Cans in Acid and Base

Engaging in this experiment allows students to gain a deeper understanding of the chemical properties of substances and the importance of safety protocols in scientific investigations.

68. Color Changing Invisible Ink

The Color Changing Invisible Ink experiment offers an intriguing and fun opportunity for students to explore chemistry and learn about the concept of chemical reactions.

Learn more: Research Parent

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65 Amazing Chemistry Experiments for Kids

Chemistry is so much fun, and we have tons of cool chemistry experiments to share with you. Like our awesome physics experiments , we decided we needed to put together a list of fun chemistry projects kids can do at home or in the classroom. Check out these examples of easy chemical reactions below!

65 Chemistry Experiments You Want To Try

We have divided our chemistry experiments below into chemical reactions, acids and bases, chromatography, solutions, polymers, and crystals. Some chemistry experiments also explore concepts in physics .

Chemical Reactions

A chemical reaction is a process where two or more substances react together to form a new chemical substance. This might look like a gas formed, cooking or baking, milk souring, etc.

Sometimes a physical change occurs, like our popcorn experiment or melting crayons, rather than a chemical change . However, these experiments below are all great examples of chemical change, where a new substance is formed.

CHECK OUT: Examples Of Physical Change and Chemical Change Examples

Can chemical reactions happen safely at home or in the classroom? Absolutely! This is one of the most fun parts of chemistry for kids, and you will find lots of ideas below for safe chemical reactions you can do with your junior scientists.

Acids And Bases

Acids and bases are important for many chemical processes in everyday life. An acid has hydrogen ions and can donate protons. Acids taste sour and have a pH from 0 to 7. Vinegar and citric acid are examples of acids.

Bases are molecules that can accept hydrogen ions. They have a pH higher than seven and can taste bitter. Sodium bicarbonate or baking soda and ammonia are examples of bases. Learn more about the pH scale.

Vinegar and baking soda experiments are classic acid-base reactions. You’ll also find experiments that use an acid such as vinegar or lemon juice. We have so many fun variations that your kids will love to try! Check out these acid-base chemistry experiments below.

Chromatography

Chromatography is a technique that involves the separation of a mixture into its parts so you can see each one individually.

A solution is a mixture of 2 or more solutes dissolved in a solvent up to its solubility limit. It most often refers to liquids, but solutions, gases, and solids are also possible. A solution will have its components evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Chemistry experiments involving solutions are great for kids. Gather liquids you commonly find in your kitchen, oil, water, detergent, etc., and explore what dissolves.

A polymer is a huge molecule made of many smaller molecules layered together in repeating patterns called monomers. Putty, slime, and cornstarch are all examples of polymers. Learn more about the science of slime polymers .

Making slime is great for at-home chemistry! It’s also a classic middle school science demonstration for the classroom. Here are a few of our favorite slime recipes to get you started.

non-Newtonian Fluids

Learn how to make oobleck ! Explore polymers with a simple cornstarch and water mixture.

A crystal is a solid material with a highly ordered internal structure of atoms, molecules, or ions held together by chemical bonds. Grow crystals and observe them by mixing a super-saturated solution and leaving it for several days to let the crystals form.

Simple to grow and taste-safe, a sugar crystals experiment is more accessible for younger kids, but you can also try growing borax crystals for older kids.

Check out our fun theme variations of growing crystals too!

Chemistry For Preschoolers

Let’s keep it basic for our younger or junior scientists! Chemistry is all about how different materials are put together and what they are made up of, like atoms and molecules.

What can you do with your youngest scientists? While working 1-1 or in a very small group is ideal, you can explore chemistry in a few fun ways that don’t require a lengthy setup or a lot of directions to follow. Do NOT overcomplicate the ideas!

Take, for example, our very first baking soda science experiment (age 3). So simple to set up, but so lovely to watch the amazement on my son’s face.

Check out these fun ways for preschoolers to explore science…

• Make liquid mixtures! Mix water and oil in a jar, let it rest, and observe what happens.
• Make solid mixtures! Mix two solid items and observe the changes!
• Mix a solid and a liquid! Add ice to a drink and observe the changes!
• Make a reaction! Set up a tray with baking soda in small cups and colored vinegar in small cups with pipettes. Mix and observe!
• Make oobleck ! Mix cornstarch and water for a weird and messy science activity.
• Explore characteristics of things! Use new science words to describe how different materials feel. Explore squishy, hard, rough, smooth, wet, etc…

Much of preschool science is about you sharing new experiences with them that are relatable and simple. A sk questions, share new words, and offer verbal prompts to get them to communicate with you about what they see!

Chemistry Science Fair Projects

Science projects are excellent tools for older kids to demonstrate their knowledge of science. They can also be used in various environments, including classrooms, homeschools, and groups.

Kids can take everything they have learned about using the scientific method , stating a hypothesis, choosing variables , and analyzing and presenting data.

Want to turn one of these fun chemistry experiments into a science project? Then you will want to check out these helpful resources.

• Easy Science Fair Projects
• Science Project Tips From A Teacher
• Science Fair Board Ideas

More Helpful Science Resources

Here are a few resources that will help you introduce science more effectively to your kiddos or students and feel confident yourself when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.

• Best Science Practices (as it relates to the scientific method)
• Science Vocabulary
• 8 Science Books for Kids
• All About Scientists
• Free Science Worksheets
• Science Supplies List
• Science Tools for Kids
• Scientific Method for Kids
• Citizen Science Guide
• Join us in the Club

Printable Science Projects For Kids

If you’re looking to grab all of our printable science projects in one convenient place plus exclusive worksheets and bonuses like a STEAM Project pack, our Science Project Pack is what you need! Over 300+ Pages!

• 90+ classic science activities  with journal pages, supply lists, set up and process, and science information.  NEW! Activity-specific observation pages!
• Best science practices posters  and our original science method process folders for extra alternatives!
• Be a Collector activities pack  introduces kids to the world of making collections through the eyes of a scientist. What will they collect first?
• Know the Words Science vocabulary pack  includes flashcards, crosswords, and word searches that illuminate keywords in the experiments!
• My science journal writing prompts  explore what it means to be a scientist!!
• Bonus STEAM Project Pack:  Art meets science with doable projects!
• Bonus Quick Grab Packs for Biology, Earth Science, Chemistry, and Physics

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Experiments

Try these with your students

Acid–base back titration | 16–18 years

Write balanced equations and calculate reacting masses and moles to find the limiting reagent

‘Gold’ coins on a microscale | 14–16 years

Practical experiment where learners produce ‘gold’ coins by electroplating a copper coin with zinc, includes follow-up worksheet

Toothpaste investigation: neutralisation reactions

Test the basicity of toothpastes and give context to neutralisation reactions

Qualitative tests for organic functional groups | practical videos | 16–18 students

Video and supporting resources to support a practical investigation to identify organic functional groups using a range of qualitative tests

Preparation of an organic liquid | practical videos | 16–18 students

Video and supporting resources to support practical work based on synthesis of an organic liquid, the experiment includes the stages of preparation, separation and purification

Electrochemical cells | practical videos | 16–18 students

Video and supporting resources to support electrochemistry practical work, including two microscale experiments, animation and cell diagrams

Rates of reaction | practical videos | 16–18 students

Video and supporting resources, includes an initial rate (iodine clock reaction) and continuous monitoring method (volume of gas)

Practical potions microscale | 11–14 years

Observe chemical changes in this microscale experiment with a spooky twist.

Microscale neutralisation and precipitation reactions | 11–14 years

Hone your learners’ observation skills with two microscale reactions: neutralising citric acid and creating a lead iodide precipitate

Antibacterial properties of the halogens | 14–18 years

Use this practical to investigate how solutions of the halogens inhibit the growth of bacteria and which is most effective

Equilibrium and Le Chatelier’s principle

Investigate the effects of concentration, pressure and temperature on equilibrium and explore Le Chatelier’s principle in this series of demonstrations.

Microscale technicians in trouble! investigation

Some solutions have been mixed up – help the technicians work out which is which

Rates of hydrolysis – practical videos | 16–18 students

Video resources and associated questions on the topic of hydrolysis of halogenoalkanes.

Redox – practical videos | 16–18 students

Video resources to support the teaching of popular classroom-based redox titrations.

Practical videos | 16–18 years

Videos of key practical techniques and apparatus for revision, flipped learning or remote teaching

Electrolysis of brine

In association with Nuffield Foundation

Use this colourful practical to introduce students to the electrolysis of brine, or sodium chloride solution. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

The equilibrium between two coloured cobalt species

In this demonstration the equilibrium between two different coloured cobalt species is disturbed. Le Chatelier’s principle is used to predict a colour change.

Precipitation reactions of lead nitrate

Compare the colours of various lead compounds to identify which would be good pigments in this microscale practical. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Some reactions of sulfur dioxide

Observe the reactions of sulfur dioxide with potassium manganate (IV), iodide/iodate mixture and indicator solution. Includes kit list and safety instructions. 

The determination of copper in brass

Try this microscale class practical to investigate how much copper there is in brass using nitric acid. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Microscale reactions of hydrogen sulfide

Observe the reactions of hydrogen sulfide with lead nitrate, silver nitrate and potassium manganate(VII) in this microscale practical. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Microscale reactions of ammonia

Try this practical to explore the reactions of ammonia with indicator solution, copper(II) sulfate solution and Nessler’s reagent. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Measuring density

By measuring the relative mass of seawater and tap water, students will be able to discover the density of these liquids. Includes kit list and safety instructions. 

The chemistry of thiosulfate ions

Sodium thiosulfate has several interesting reactions with a variety of chemicals. This experiment will let students explore and record these reactions. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Some reactions of nitrogen dioxide

Using a range of chemicals and solutions, students can create an experiment that will explore some of the reactions of nitrogen dioxide. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Testing acids and bases on a microscale

Test various substances with indicator solution and look for colour changes in this microscale class practical. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Mass changes in chemical reactions

Perform two chemical reactions to see whether any mass changes occur in this microscale class practical. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

The oxidation of cyclohexanol by nitric acid

Perform a ring opening oxidation using nitric acid to produce the dicarboxylic acid, 1,6-hexanedioic acid (adipic acid) – and then use the solid crystals that form to determine a melting point. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Exploring the chemistry of chromium, molybdenum and tungsten

Discover how transition elements differ in aspects of colour, precipitate formation, changes in oxidation state and equilibria. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Brady’s test for aldehydes and ketones

Identify aldehydes and ketones using Brady’s reagent (2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine) in this microscale experiment. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

The chemical properties of phenol

Observe and interpret some of the chemical reactions of hydroxybenzene (phenol), by adding five different substances to a Petri dish, and noting down findings. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Preparing ethyne on a microscale

Generate ethyne gas with calcium carbide and test its properties in this microscale class practical. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Observing chemical changes

Try this microscale practical to explore the chemical changes in displacement, redox and precipitation reactions. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Diffusion of gases on a microscale

Try this class practical to explore the diffusion of gases and how relative molecular mass affects rate of diffusion. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Redox chemistry with dichromate ions

Observe the colour changes that occur with the reduction of dichromate ions by hydrogen peroxide. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Oxidation states of iron

Compare the two main oxidation states of iron and consider explanations for differences in this microscale practical. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Microscale reactions of metals with acids

Try this class practical to explore reactivity series with various metals as they react with acids on a microscale. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Unsaturation test with potassium manganate(VII)

Use a solution of potassium manganate to test for unsaturation in organic compounds in this microscale practical. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Properties of group 2 elements

Microscale experiment where various anion solutions are added to drops of group 2 element cations. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Testing for unsaturation with bromine on a microscale

Try this class experiment to prepare elemental bromine and use it to test for unsaturation in organic compounds. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Oxygen and methylene blue

Reacting hydrogen peroxide, and potassium manganate together will produce detectable oxygen so by using methylene blue solution, and a gas generating apparatus students can test for the presence of oxygen in this practical. Includes kit list and safety instruction.

Synthesis of aspirin on a microscale

Use this class practical to produce aspirin in a microscale esterification reaction using phosphoric acid as a catalyst. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Energy changes in neutralisation

Study energy changes in two chemical reactions using thermometer strips to measure temperature in this experiment. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Formation of TCP (2,4,6-trichlorohydroxybenzene)

Delve into preparing TCP by reacting hydroxybenzene (phenol) with chlorine gas, and create this distinctive smelling compound.

Investigating redox reactions on a microscale

Carry out two redox reactions and observe and interpret the results in this microscale class practical. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

The microscale synthesis of indigo dye

Carry out a microscale organic synthesis, the result of which will leave students with indigo dye. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

The treatment of oil spills

Tackle the real-life environment problem of oil spills in your classroom, by creating and then treating a micro version of an oil event. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

The microscale synthesis of azo dyes

Synthesise an azo dye, and use it to change the colour of cotton, with this class experiment. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Sulfate and carbonate solubility of Groups 1 and 2

Try this microscale practical to explore the properties of elements in Groups 1 and 2 as they form various precipitates. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Exploring the properties of the carvones

Test the smell of each enantiomer of carvone and detect the differences

Measuring the amount of vitamin C in fruit drinks

Explore ascorbic acid in fruit drinks through titration in this experiment, with specimen results and calculations, stock solutions, and detailed notes included. 

Displacement reactions of metals on a microscale

Examine the reactions between various metals and metal salt solutions in this microscale class practical. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Electrolysis using a microscale Hoffman apparatus

Investigate the electrolysis of sodium sulfate solution using a microscale Hoffman apparatus in this class practical. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

The chemistry of silver

Discover the properties of silver compounds with redox reactions, complex formation and colour/state changes. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Transition elements and complex compounds microscale experiment | 16–18 years

Try this microscale practical investigating the transition elements, complex formation and change in oxidation state. Includes kit list and safety instructions

Analysis of aspirin tablets on a microscale

Try this microscale class practical to analyse aspirin tablets and find out how much salicylic acid is present. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

The temperature changes induced by evaporation

Explore the rate of evaporation for a trio of liquids, using just a temperature strip, and our worksheet. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Properties of stereoisomers

By soaking cotton wool in two limonene enantiomers, and adding a stereoisomer, students can explore the differences between each chemical and discuss how they each might react in different conditions. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Turning copper coins into ‘silver’ and ‘gold’

Perform what looks like alchemy with ordinary copper coins in this teacher demonstration. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

The effect of temperature on solubility

Hot or cold, which water is better for soluble substances? Explore your finding from this practical into the effect of temperature on solubility. Includes kit list and safety instructions. 

Particles in motion?

Explore the movement of gas particles in this practical but reacting calcium carbonate with hydrochloric acid. Includes kit list and safety instructions. 

The reactivity of the group 2 metals

Compare group 1 and group 2 metals with this practical that shows their reactivity rates, where students can take control of their own observations and come to their own conclusions

Producing a foam

Explore foams and their properties in this experiment, so students learn how foam is produced and produce their own. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Electricity from chemicals

Use various metals, in pairs, and n electrolyte to form a cell. Then observe the formation of ions around the reactive metal, and compare the speed with which they form around the less reactive metal. Includes kit list and safety instructions. 

The electrolysis of solutions

Electricity is passed through various solutions and the products are identified. Includes kit list and safety instructions

The volume of 1 mole of hydrogen gas

Understand the volume of one mole of hydrogen gas through a magnesium and acid reaction, taking note of the temperature and pressure. Includes kit list and safety instructions. 

The effect of temperature on reaction rate

Discover more about collision theory in this practical, where a sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid mixture produce an interesting reaction. Includes kit list and safety instructions. 

The effect of concentration and temperature on reaction rate

Reaction rate can be altered by many things, in this practical students explore how temperature and concentration effect reaction in an closer look at kinetics. Includes kit list and safety instructions. 

Reacting elements with oxygen

Different members of the periodic table will exhibit different reactions when exposed to oxygen, often through heating. This practical supports students to understand the diversity of chemicals and their principles.

Creating an effervescent universal indicator ‘rainbow’

This quick practical uses existing chemicals in your learning space, for students to observe the effervescent reaction that causes universal indicator to create a ‘rainbow’ of colour. Kit list and safety instructions included.

The reaction of magnesium with steam

Plunge a burning magnesium ribbon into the steam above boiling water and allow the hydrogen that is formed to burn – or collect it over water and test it with a lighted spill.

Making a reaction tube

Guide students through this practical to create a reaction tube. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Properties of the transition metals and their compounds

Student discover the diversity of transition metals in this practical that puts their knowledge of these common elements to the test. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Disappearing ink

Explore the reaction between acids and bases as students create disappearing ink, in this favourite classroom practical.

Testing salts for anions and cations

A full range of chemicals will guide students into discovering how to identify the composition of unknown substances. Includes kit list and safry instructions. 

Rubber band experiment

A rubber band, a hairdryer, and a curious mind will see students discover the principles of heat based reactions. Includes kit list and safety instruction.

A Cartesian diver

An old favourite experiment, the Cartesian diver is easy for students to complete. Explore important ideas that build a foundation of knowledge. 

Chemistry and electricity

Create coloured writing from acids, alkali, and salt solution, all activated through electrolysis.

Compare the viscosity of thick and thin liquids in this experiment, which gets young learners exploring how viscosity alters the speed of an air bubble through the substances. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

The oxidation states of vanadium

Introduce your students to the idea that different oxidation states of transition metal ions often have different colours, and that electrode potentials can be used to predict the course of the redox reactions. Includes kit list and safety instructions. 

Burning milk powder

Gather a Bunsen burner, and some common powdered milk to help students grasp the ideas of surface area and reaction rates. Includes kit list and safety instructions. 

A visible activated complex

A simple demonstration of catalysis also introducing the idea of an activated complex and to allow discussion of the mechanism of catalysis. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Hydrogen peroxide decomposition using different catalysts

Collect a range of catalysts to explore the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, paying close attention to the varied reaction rates. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Competition for oxygen | reacting metals with oxides

Explore the reactions of metals when exposed to the oxide of another metal. When reactions like these occur, the two metals compete for the oxygen. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Electrolysis of potassium iodide solution

Find out how the electrolysis of a potassium iodide solution works with this practical. Includes kit list, and safety instructions. 

An alternative to using compressed gas cylinders

Getting gas under pressure allows exciting demonstrations such as igniting balloons filled with hydrogen gas. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Flame tests (the wooden splint method)

Find a new method to perform flame tests using wooden splints soaked in chlorides. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

Making nylon: the ‘nylon rope trick’

The ‘nylon rope trick’ is a classic of chemistry classrooms, by mixing decanedioyl dichloride and in cyclohexane you can create a solution that will form nylon strings when floated on an aqueous solution of 1,6-diaminohexane. Kit list and safety instructions included.

Neutralisation circles

Support students to explore neutralisation circles in this experiment that can be performed with common chemistry classroom equipment. Kit list and safety instructions included. 

The methane rocket

Ignite methane with oxygen in a bottle, and amaze students with this methane rocket. Contains kit list and safety instructions.

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72 Easy Science Experiments Using Materials You Already Have On Hand

Because science doesn’t have to be complicated.

If there is one thing that is guaranteed to get your students excited, it’s a good science experiment! While some experiments require expensive lab equipment or dangerous chemicals, there are plenty of cool projects you can do with regular household items. We’ve rounded up a big collection of easy science experiments that anybody can try, and kids are going to love them!

Easy Chemistry Science Experiments

Easy physics science experiments, easy biology and environmental science experiments, easy engineering experiments and stem challenges.

1. Taste the Rainbow

Teach your students about diffusion while creating a beautiful and tasty rainbow! Tip: Have extra Skittles on hand so your class can eat a few!

Learn more: Skittles Diffusion

2. Crystallize sweet treats

Crystal science experiments teach kids about supersaturated solutions. This one is easy to do at home, and the results are absolutely delicious!

Learn more: Candy Crystals

3. Make a volcano erupt

This classic experiment demonstrates a chemical reaction between baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (acetic acid), which produces carbon dioxide gas, water, and sodium acetate.

Learn more: Best Volcano Experiments

4. Make elephant toothpaste

This fun project uses yeast and a hydrogen peroxide solution to create overflowing “elephant toothpaste.” Tip: Add an extra fun layer by having kids create toothpaste wrappers for plastic bottles.

5. Blow the biggest bubbles you can

Add a few simple ingredients to dish soap solution to create the largest bubbles you’ve ever seen! Kids learn about surface tension as they engineer these bubble-blowing wands.

Learn more: Giant Soap Bubbles

6. Demonstrate the “magic” leakproof bag

All you need is a zip-top plastic bag, sharp pencils, and water to blow your kids’ minds. Once they’re suitably impressed, teach them how the “trick” works by explaining the chemistry of polymers.

Learn more: Leakproof Bag

7. Use apple slices to learn about oxidation

Have students make predictions about what will happen to apple slices when immersed in different liquids, then put those predictions to the test. Have them record their observations.

Learn more: Apple Oxidation

8. Float a marker man

Their eyes will pop out of their heads when you “levitate” a stick figure right off the table! This experiment works due to the insolubility of dry-erase marker ink in water, combined with the lighter density of the ink.

Learn more: Floating Marker Man

9. Discover density with hot and cold water

There are a lot of easy science experiments you can do with density. This one is extremely simple, involving only hot and cold water and food coloring, but the visuals make it appealing and fun.

Learn more: Layered Water

10. Layer more liquids

This density demo is a little more complicated, but the effects are spectacular. Slowly layer liquids like honey, dish soap, water, and rubbing alcohol in a glass. Kids will be amazed when the liquids float one on top of the other like magic (except it is really science).

Learn more: Layered Liquids

11. Grow a carbon sugar snake

Easy science experiments can still have impressive results! This eye-popping chemical reaction demonstration only requires simple supplies like sugar, baking soda, and sand.

Learn more: Carbon Sugar Snake

12. Mix up some slime

Tell kids you’re going to make slime at home, and watch their eyes light up! There are a variety of ways to make slime, so try a few different recipes to find the one you like best.

13. Make homemade bouncy balls

These homemade bouncy balls are easy to make since all you need is glue, food coloring, borax powder, cornstarch, and warm water. You’ll want to store them inside a container like a plastic egg because they will flatten out over time.

Learn more: Make Your Own Bouncy Balls

14. Create eggshell chalk

Eggshells contain calcium, the same material that makes chalk. Grind them up and mix them with flour, water, and food coloring to make your very own sidewalk chalk.

Learn more: Eggshell Chalk

15. Make naked eggs

This is so cool! Use vinegar to dissolve the calcium carbonate in an eggshell to discover the membrane underneath that holds the egg together. Then, use the “naked” egg for another easy science experiment that demonstrates osmosis .

Learn more: Naked Egg Experiment

16. Turn milk into plastic

This sounds a lot more complicated than it is, but don’t be afraid to give it a try. Use simple kitchen supplies to create plastic polymers from plain old milk. Sculpt them into cool shapes when you’re done!

17. Test pH using cabbage

Teach kids about acids and bases without needing pH test strips! Simply boil some red cabbage and use the resulting water to test various substances—acids turn red and bases turn green.

Learn more: Cabbage pH

18. Clean some old coins

Use common household items to make old oxidized coins clean and shiny again in this simple chemistry experiment. Ask kids to predict (hypothesize) which will work best, then expand the learning by doing some research to explain the results.

Learn more: Cleaning Coins

19. Pull an egg into a bottle

This classic easy science experiment never fails to delight. Use the power of air pressure to suck a hard-boiled egg into a jar, no hands required.

Learn more: Egg in a Bottle

20. Blow up a balloon (without blowing)

Chances are good you probably did easy science experiments like this when you were in school. The baking soda and vinegar balloon experiment demonstrates the reactions between acids and bases when you fill a bottle with vinegar and a balloon with baking soda.

21 Assemble a DIY lava lamp

This 1970s trend is back—as an easy science experiment! This activity combines acid-base reactions with density for a totally groovy result.

22. Explore how sugary drinks affect teeth

The calcium content of eggshells makes them a great stand-in for teeth. Use eggs to explore how soda and juice can stain teeth and wear down the enamel. Expand your learning by trying different toothpaste-and-toothbrush combinations to see how effective they are.

Learn more: Sugar and Teeth Experiment

23. Mummify a hot dog

If your kids are fascinated by the Egyptians, they’ll love learning to mummify a hot dog! No need for canopic jars , just grab some baking soda and get started.

24. Extinguish flames with carbon dioxide

This is a fiery twist on acid-base experiments. Light a candle and talk about what fire needs in order to survive. Then, create an acid-base reaction and “pour” the carbon dioxide to extinguish the flame. The CO2 gas acts like a liquid, suffocating the fire.

25. Send secret messages with invisible ink

Turn your kids into secret agents! Write messages with a paintbrush dipped in lemon juice, then hold the paper over a heat source and watch the invisible become visible as oxidation goes to work.

Learn more: Invisible Ink

26. Create dancing popcorn

This is a fun version of the classic baking soda and vinegar experiment, perfect for the younger crowd. The bubbly mixture causes popcorn to dance around in the water.

27. Shoot a soda geyser sky-high

You’ve always wondered if this really works, so it’s time to find out for yourself! Kids will marvel at the chemical reaction that sends diet soda shooting high in the air when Mentos are added.

Learn more: Soda Explosion

28. Send a teabag flying

Hot air rises, and this experiment can prove it! You’ll want to supervise kids with fire, of course. For more safety, try this one outside.

Learn more: Flying Tea Bags

29. Create magic milk

This fun and easy science experiment demonstrates principles related to surface tension, molecular interactions, and fluid dynamics.

Learn more: Magic Milk Experiment

30. Watch the water rise

Learn about Charles’s Law with this simple experiment. As the candle burns, using up oxygen and heating the air in the glass, the water rises as if by magic.

Learn more: Rising Water

31. Learn about capillary action

Kids will be amazed as they watch the colored water move from glass to glass, and you’ll love the easy and inexpensive setup. Gather some water, paper towels, and food coloring to teach the scientific magic of capillary action.

Learn more: Capillary Action

32. Give a balloon a beard

Equally educational and fun, this experiment will teach kids about static electricity using everyday materials. Kids will undoubtedly get a kick out of creating beards on their balloon person!

Learn more: Static Electricity

33. Find your way with a DIY compass

Here’s an old classic that never fails to impress. Magnetize a needle, float it on the water’s surface, and it will always point north.

Learn more: DIY Compass

34. Crush a can using air pressure

Sure, it’s easy to crush a soda can with your bare hands, but what if you could do it without touching it at all? That’s the power of air pressure!

35. Tell time using the sun

While people use clocks or even phones to tell time today, there was a time when a sundial was the best means to do that. Kids will certainly get a kick out of creating their own sundials using everyday materials like cardboard and pencils.

Learn more: Make Your Own Sundial

36. Launch a balloon rocket

Grab balloons, string, straws, and tape, and launch rockets to learn about the laws of motion.

37. Make sparks with steel wool

All you need is steel wool and a 9-volt battery to perform this science demo that’s bound to make their eyes light up! Kids learn about chain reactions, chemical changes, and more.

Learn more: Steel Wool Electricity

38. Levitate a Ping-Pong ball

Kids will get a kick out of this experiment, which is really all about Bernoulli’s principle. You only need plastic bottles, bendy straws, and Ping-Pong balls to make the science magic happen.

39. Whip up a tornado in a bottle

There are plenty of versions of this classic experiment out there, but we love this one because it sparkles! Kids learn about a vortex and what it takes to create one.

Learn more: Tornado in a Bottle

40. Monitor air pressure with a DIY barometer

This simple but effective DIY science project teaches kids about air pressure and meteorology. They’ll have fun tracking and predicting the weather with their very own barometer.

Learn more: DIY Barometer

41. Peer through an ice magnifying glass

Students will certainly get a thrill out of seeing how an everyday object like a piece of ice can be used as a magnifying glass. Be sure to use purified or distilled water since tap water will have impurities in it that will cause distortion.

Learn more: Ice Magnifying Glass

42. String up some sticky ice

Can you lift an ice cube using just a piece of string? This quick experiment teaches you how. Use a little salt to melt the ice and then refreeze the ice with the string attached.

Learn more: Sticky Ice

43. “Flip” a drawing with water

Light refraction causes some really cool effects, and there are multiple easy science experiments you can do with it. This one uses refraction to “flip” a drawing; you can also try the famous “disappearing penny” trick .

Learn more: Light Refraction With Water

44. Color some flowers

We love how simple this project is to re-create since all you’ll need are some white carnations, food coloring, glasses, and water. The end result is just so beautiful!

45. Use glitter to fight germs

Everyone knows that glitter is just like germs—it gets everywhere and is so hard to get rid of! Use that to your advantage and show kids how soap fights glitter and germs.

Learn more: Glitter Germs

46. Re-create the water cycle in a bag

You can do so many easy science experiments with a simple zip-top bag. Fill one partway with water and set it on a sunny windowsill to see how the water evaporates up and eventually “rains” down.

Learn more: Water Cycle

47. Learn about plant transpiration

Your backyard is a terrific place for easy science experiments. Grab a plastic bag and rubber band to learn how plants get rid of excess water they don’t need, a process known as transpiration.

Learn more: Plant Transpiration

48. Clean up an oil spill

Before conducting this experiment, teach your students about engineers who solve environmental problems like oil spills. Then, have your students use provided materials to clean the oil spill from their oceans.

Learn more: Oil Spill

49. Construct a pair of model lungs

Kids get a better understanding of the respiratory system when they build model lungs using a plastic water bottle and some balloons. You can modify the experiment to demonstrate the effects of smoking too.

Learn more: Model Lungs

50. Experiment with limestone rocks

Kids  love to collect rocks, and there are plenty of easy science experiments you can do with them. In this one, pour vinegar over a rock to see if it bubbles. If it does, you’ve found limestone!

Learn more: Limestone Experiments

51. Turn a bottle into a rain gauge

All you need is a plastic bottle, a ruler, and a permanent marker to make your own rain gauge. Monitor your measurements and see how they stack up against meteorology reports in your area.

Learn more: DIY Rain Gauge

52. Build up towel mountains

This clever demonstration helps kids understand how some landforms are created. Use layers of towels to represent rock layers and boxes for continents. Then pu-u-u-sh and see what happens!

Learn more: Towel Mountains

53. Take a play dough core sample

Learn about the layers of the earth by building them out of Play-Doh, then take a core sample with a straw. ( Love Play-Doh? Get more learning ideas here. )

Learn more: Play Dough Core Sampling

54. Project the stars on your ceiling

Use the video lesson in the link below to learn why stars are only visible at night. Then create a DIY star projector to explore the concept hands-on.

Learn more: DIY Star Projector

55. Make it rain

Use shaving cream and food coloring to simulate clouds and rain. This is an easy science experiment little ones will beg to do over and over.

Learn more: Shaving Cream Rain

56. Blow up your fingerprint

This is such a cool (and easy!) way to look at fingerprint patterns. Inflate a balloon a bit, use some ink to put a fingerprint on it, then blow it up big to see your fingerprint in detail.

57. Snack on a DNA model

Twizzlers, gumdrops, and a few toothpicks are all you need to make this super-fun (and yummy!) DNA model.

Learn more: Edible DNA Model

58. Dissect a flower

Take a nature walk and find a flower or two. Then bring them home and take them apart to discover all the different parts of flowers.

59. Craft smartphone speakers

No Bluetooth speaker? No problem! Put together your own from paper cups and toilet paper tubes.

Learn more: Smartphone Speakers

60. Race a balloon-powered car

Kids will be amazed when they learn they can put together this awesome racer using cardboard and bottle-cap wheels. The balloon-powered “engine” is so much fun too.

Learn more: Balloon-Powered Car

61. Build a Ferris wheel

You’ve probably ridden on a Ferris wheel, but can you build one? Stock up on wood craft sticks and find out! Play around with different designs to see which one works best.

Learn more: Craft Stick Ferris Wheel

62. Design a phone stand

There are lots of ways to craft a DIY phone stand, which makes this a perfect creative-thinking STEM challenge.

63. Conduct an egg drop

Put all their engineering skills to the test with an egg drop! Challenge kids to build a container from stuff they find around the house that will protect an egg from a long fall (this is especially fun to do from upper-story windows).

Learn more: Egg Drop Challenge Ideas

64. Engineer a drinking-straw roller coaster

STEM challenges are always a hit with kids. We love this one, which only requires basic supplies like drinking straws.

Learn more: Straw Roller Coaster

65. Build a solar oven

Explore the power of the sun when you build your own solar ovens and use them to cook some yummy treats. This experiment takes a little more time and effort, but the results are always impressive. The link below has complete instructions.

Learn more: Solar Oven

66. Build a Da Vinci bridge

There are plenty of bridge-building experiments out there, but this one is unique. It’s inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s 500-year-old self-supporting wooden bridge. Learn how to build it at the link, and expand your learning by exploring more about Da Vinci himself.

Learn more: Da Vinci Bridge

67. Step through an index card

This is one easy science experiment that never fails to astonish. With carefully placed scissor cuts on an index card, you can make a loop large enough to fit a (small) human body through! Kids will be wowed as they learn about surface area.

68. Stand on a pile of paper cups

Combine physics and engineering and challenge kids to create a paper cup structure that can support their weight. This is a cool project for aspiring architects.

Learn more: Paper Cup Stack

69. Test out parachutes

Gather a variety of materials (try tissues, handkerchiefs, plastic bags, etc.) and see which ones make the best parachutes. You can also find out how they’re affected by windy days or find out which ones work in the rain.

Learn more: Parachute Drop

70. Recycle newspapers into an engineering challenge

It’s amazing how a stack of newspapers can spark such creative engineering. Challenge kids to build a tower, support a book, or even build a chair using only newspaper and tape!

Learn more: Newspaper STEM Challenge

71. Use rubber bands to sound out acoustics

Explore the ways that sound waves are affected by what’s around them using a simple rubber band “guitar.” (Kids absolutely love playing with these!)

Learn more: Rubber Band Guitar

72. Assemble a better umbrella

Challenge students to engineer the best possible umbrella from various household supplies. Encourage them to plan, draw blueprints, and test their creations using the scientific method.

Learn more: Umbrella STEM Challenge

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Easy Chemistry Experiments for Kids

October 19, 2021 By Emma Vanstone 1 Comment

When I think back to my own childhood and school days, I don’t remember any chemistry experiments until secondary school, which is a shame because there are so many wonderfully visual easy chemistry experiments for kids that can be done at home or in school with young children.

I’ve put together a collection of my favourite examples, do let us know if you try any.

  Please remember young children should be supervised at all times.

Chemistry Experiments for Kids in the Kitchen

Exploding sandwich bags .

I did struggle a little when we tried this as the reaction happens so fast, but  Steve Spangler has a nifty method where he traps the vinegar in a second smaller bag, which you then have to burst to get the reaction started.

Inspiration laboratories add a twist by adding some colour and making  firework pictures at the same time.

Blow Up a Balloon

This is a super simple demonstration or experiment that has never failed me, and all you need is a container with a small neck, a balloon and either an alka seltzer or an effervescent vitamin tablet. The alka seltzer or vitamin tablet reacts with water to release bubbles of carbon dioxide filling the jar and then blowing up the balloon.

Blow up a balloon with alka seltzer

Find out how to blow up a balloon with lemon juice and baking soda.

Colourful Milk

Make a lovely, colourful display using milk, food colouring and vinegar.

Oil, Food Colouring and Water Exploration Table

My oil, water and food colouring exploration table is brilliant for even very young children. For older children, try a more structured approach, they could measure the amount of vinegar and baking soda needed to make the reaction spill over the top of the beaker or try dropping tiny amounts of coloured water into the oil.

Density Rainbow Jar

Learn about the tricky concept of density and make a beautiful demonstration density jar .

Simple Density Jar

If you don’t want to make as many layers as we have, why not try this smaller version and try to find an object to float on each layer?

Lemon Volcanoes

This lemon volcano from Babble Dabble Do is a great alternative to the traditional volcano and is handy as the lemon already contains acid.

Clean coins

Did you know you can clean coins with vinegar ?

Colourful Chemistry Experiments

Make your own ph indicator.

Test the pH of vinegar and baking soda with a red cabbage indicator . What do you think might happen if you blow into the indicator?

Dissolving Skittles

Watching the colour dissolve from skittles or M & Ms dissolve into water is a lovely, quick, visual activity.

Chemistry Experiments for Kids Outside

Giant bubbles.

Who doesn’t love a giant bubble ? Red Ted Art makes bubble making look easy in this great video. Remember, the mixture gets better the longer you leave it, so allow plenty of time.

Make a Square Bubble

All you need to make a square bubble is a square frame. If you don’t have plastic pieces to use, pipe cleaners also work well.

Coke and Mento Reaction

The infamous coke and mento reaction is super easy and very impressive to watch. Try comparing the size of the geyser using diet and full sugar cola or using different types of fizzy drinks.

Can you design something which allows the mentos to drop in as soon as you remove the lid?

Elephants Toothpaste

Fun at Home with Kids makes elephants toothpaste   look super simple, but do be careful with the hydrogen peroxide and take appropriate precautions.

Film Canister Rockets

Film canister rockets are easy, inexpensive and great fun. All you need is a film canister, an effervescent vitamin tablet and some water. Experiment with different amounts of water and tablets to find the most explosive combination.

Make a Volcano

Find out how to make a volcano erupt with sand, snow or papier mache. A baking soda volcano is a brilliant classic chemistry experiment every kid should try at least once!

Chemistry Separation Methods

Bicycle centrifuge.

Did you know you can use bike wheels as a very basic centrifuge ?

Stone and Gravel Filter

Learn about filters by making a filter with stones , gravel and sand.

Filter Paper Chromatography

Take on the role of a detective with some fun filter paper chromatography .

Can you think of any more amazing chemistry experiments for kids?

Last Updated on April 13, 2023 by Emma Vanstone

Safety Notice

Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

Reader Interactions

June 15, 2021 at 5:04 pm

these ideas are great i picked two to do at my moms house the skittles in water and coke with mentos my mom might not let me do the coke bootle and mentos but she might let me do the skittles i will let you know if it works if it does i give this website a 10/10

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8 Easy Chemistry Experiments At Home (Get a Great Reaction!)

If you want to have some fun with chemistry at home, there are three main ways to go about it. You can buy a chemistry set, subscribe to a subscription box, or find some instructions and use household items. However you go about it, chemistry is a great way to get kids excited about chemistry and science in general.

Related post: Best STEM Subscription Box for Kids (Ultimate Guide 2024)

Chemistry Sets and Subscription Boxes

Before we dive into easy experiments, you can do with things you’ll probably have at home. I just wanted to talk a little bit about your other options.

Chemistry sets can be an excellent investment. They come with equipment that you can reuse over and over. It’s a lot cheaper than having to replace your drinking glasses and measuring jugs because the kids keep using them for chemistry experiments! They also come with instructions on a range of experiments that you can try. If you’ve done a few of the experiments below and are looking for something more, a chemistry set can be a really good option. There are ones aimed at young kids all the way up to teenagers .

Another great option to consider is subscription boxes. These are great for extending learning and keeping kids entertained and engaged for a more extended period. There are loads of great options to choose from. But, when it comes to chemistry, you really can’t go wrong with MEL Science . They have two subscription levels, so you can get a big box or a small one each month. Because everything is in the box, it really takes all the planning and hunting for ingredients out of the equation.

Experiments Using Household Items

If you don’t have a science kit on hand and are looking for something quick and easy to try at home, then these are the experiments you should try. Most of these use items that you will probably have at home, although a few might require you to get a little creative or grab the odd thing the next time you go to the shops.

Chromatography

Chromatography is a technique used in chemistry. It lets you find out what’s inside chemicals. In this version from Fizzics Education, you’ll see what colors are mixed up inside felt tip pens. It’s a straightforward experiment to carry out. All you need is some paper towels, felt tips, and a glass of water.

This is a simple version of this experiment, but there are some easy ways to make it more interesting or scientific. One way to extend this experiment is to try the same technique but using your favorite sweets’ colorings.

For instance, sweets like M&Ms, Skittles, and Smarties all have food coloring on their outside. You can get a sample of this coloring by sitting the candy in a small amount of water. Then you use the colored water in the same way as the felt tip pens.

To add a bit of rigor and math to the experiment, you need a pencil and a ruler. Instead of drawing a line of felt tip, you draw a line with a pencil. Then put a spot of the felt tip on the pencil line. When you take the paper out, you mark a second pencil line to show how high the water went.

By measuring the distance, each of the colors went and the distance the water went, you can calculate something called the retention factor. The retention factor will be unique for different dyes. To find the retention factor, you take the distance your sample travels and divide it by the length the solvent (water in this case) traveled. You can use this number to see if the same dye is used in different pens.

Pop Rockets

This is one of my favorite chemistry experiments for kids. It does get a little messy, so make sure you have some cloths on hand. Alternatively, you can do it outside to make it a little easier to clean up. Steve Spangler Science has some great instructions to follow.

In their version, they use an old film canister. But these can be a bit hard to get hold of these days since everything is digital. Some good alternatives that work well include empty glue stick containers. It’s also worth keeping your eye out for any food containers with push-on lids, as these can work well. There are always a lot of good options around Halloween, Christmas, and Easter – the snack size containers tend to be pretty good options.

The reason I love this experiment is that it’s a lot of fun. There’s the excitement of the pop and watching the canister fly. But, there are also a lot of opportunities to turn this into a real investigation. You can try changing the volumes of liquid or the type of liquid. You can find the best mix to make the biggest noise, the loudest pop, or the perfect mix to make it pop in precisely 8 seconds.

Make Oobleck Dance!

Oobleck is the name that’s been given to an awesome type of slime that you can make at home. If it sounds like something out of Dr. Suess, that’s because it is. This slime is just a mix of cornstarch and water, so it’s pretty easy to make. These instructions from Housing A Forest are pretty good.

What’s cool about Oobleck is that it’s a Non-Newtonian solid. That means that it behaves a little differently than you might expect. For instance, when you try to stir it quickly, it gets hard and almost solid. If you run your fingers through it slowly, it flows like runny syrup.

Now just playing with this stuff is fun, but if you have a speaker to hand, you can do something even cooler. In the guide from Housing A Forest, they suggest using a subwoofer and a cookie sheet. The speaker’s vibrations make the Oobleck bounce around and switch from a solid to a liquid to the beat of the music.

If you have an old speaker that you don’t mind breaking, you can wrap the speaker in saran wrap and put the Oobleck straight onto that. It works a lot better, but if you don’t cover the speaker correctly, it can break.

Make Rubber Eggs

Eggs are an excellent ingredient for science experiments. This experiment from 3P Learning lets you turn a hardboiled egg into a bouncy rubber one. To do this, all you need to do is soak it in vinegar for a day or so. This will dissolve the calcium carbonate of the eggshell. When it’s done, you’ll be able to rub off the tough outer shell.

Without the shell, you’ll be left with the membrane that lines the shell. This membrane helps hold the egg together. This membrane is strong enough to drop the egg onto a surface from a reasonable height, and it will bounce back without falling apart.

The harder your egg is, the less it will bounce. If you want a mix between bounciness and minimal potential for mess, then you’ll want to aim for a soft boiled egg. But, if you don’t mind the mess, try a raw egg. You remove the shell in the same way. When it comes off, you get a peek inside the raw egg. Because it’s raw, it’s squishy and bounces better. Of course, if you drop it from high enough, it will break. When you do this, you’ll find the stretchy membrane, which is pretty cool to feel.

Lemony Eruption

I’m sure you’ve all done the classic volcano eruption with baking soda and vinegar. This is a twist on that experiment. It takes advantage of the fact that lemons are already full of natural citric acid. Here are some great instructions from Babble Dabble Do. They have some handy tips on how to make the most out of each lemon. The great thing about this version is that your room will smell lovely and lemony for the rest of the day.

If you want to extend this, you try investigating which other fruits this would work with. You could explore a whole citric family of volcanoes.

Concoct Some Invisible Ink

Write Secret Messages With Invisible Ink! by Science Buddies

Making invisible ink is really easy. There is some fun chemistry behind how it works. As a bonus, once your kids get the hang of it, they’ll have loads of fun sending coded messages. It’s a great way to keep them entertained.

This great recipe from Thoughtco can be revealed using two different methods. If you have a safe and controllable heat source, you can hold the paper up to that. Ironing the paper works as well, although that’s best left to adults. Otherwise, you can use purple grape juice to reveal the message. If you paint over the page with grape juice, the message will show up in a different color.

If sending secret messages isn’t appealing to your kids, you could challenge them to create something artistic with this technique. The only limit is their imagination.

If you’ve done any chemistry experiments for kids, then you probably know that an acid + baking soda makes for an awesome fizzy experiment. I’ve seen this used in many different ways, but this version from STEAM powered family is one of the best.

In this experiment/activity, you encase small dinosaur toys in a paste made of baking soda and water. By adding food coloring, you can create multicolored eggs. You can even hide glitter inside for an added surprise. When made, you freeze the eggs for about an hour, so they are set hard.

To hatch the eggs, you give your kids syringes and a cup of vinegar. They can then apply the vinegar wherever they want to discover what’s hiding inside the eggs. Just remember to place the eggs in an easy to wash container with reasonably high sides.

Fireworks Alternative

I love fireworks, but I feel guilty about enjoying them because they are an environmental disaster. So, whenever bonfire night rolls around, I always set this up to have some fun and color in our home without having to damage the environment. It’s not quite as good as fireworks, but it’s pretty cool never-the-less.

All you need is:

• Oil – any sort will do. Cheap vegetable oil is just fine
• Food coloring (The liquid kind, not gel)
• Droppers (medicine syringes work well too)
• A clear, tall jar – a mason jat is perfect

To get the magic going, all you need to do is fill your jar ¾ full with warm water. Then add a good layer of oil on top. About an inch deep is plenty. Then you use your dropper to drip food coloring into the jar.

At first, the food coloring will sit at the interface between the oil and water. Then all of a sudden, it will drop through, leaving a trail of color behind it in the water. It looks impressive if you do lots of drops of different colors and then sit back and watch as they drop through the liquids.

Eventually, your water will turn a muddy, muddle color. But, this is such an easy experiment that you can wash out your jar and try again.

Just a little not to say that if you can’t get hold of a dropper or syringe then you can just drip the food coloring from the bottle. As long as you only put in small amounts at a time it does still work.

If you want to extend the fun, keep the oil and some of the colored water when you pour out the container. You want to have more oil than water this time, so I suggest moving them to a second smaller bottle. Then if you add an Alka-Seltzer tablet, you’ve got a homemade lava lamp. To get the best effect, stand your lava lamp bottle on top of a light.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most useful household ingredients for chemistry experiments.

When it comes to chemistry experiments, having the right ingredients makes all the difference. If you like explosions, then you’ll probably want to have a good supply of baking soda and vinegar on hand. Other common ingredients include ice, food coloring, citric acid, cornflour, and borax.

If you’re planning on doing lots of experiments, you might want to have a clear measuring jug and a few clear bowls of glasses that you don’t mind sacrificing.

Is cooking chemistry?

Absolutely! There is loads of chemistry behind making food taste great. If you like a perfectly browned steak, then you’re a fan of the Maillard reaction. If you like sweets and desserts, then you’re benefiting from the careful balance of ingredients and use of temperature needed to create the textures and flavor you love.

There is a whole field of science called food science, which is a specific field of chemistry. A great introduction to this field is to experiment with the ratio of ingredients in a simple recipe. You’ll learn what effect the different ingredients have on the outcome. Alternatively, you could make a sourdough starter.

What is the easiest science project?

All of the experiments on this list are pretty easy to try. The chromatography experiment is probably the one that has the most common equipment and is pretty hard to mess up. The fireworks alternative is also an easy experiment that looks great.

Sandy is an experienced STEM educator, having spent a decade teaching Physics. She also loves to volunteer at local STEM fairs to show kids, especially girls, how awesome it is. She is so passionate about science that one science degree wasn’t enough and she decided to complete a second part-time, while working.

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10 Awesome Chemistry Experiments for High School Students

The subject of chemistry is one subject that sends shivers down the spines of students, and sometimes even parents(maybe when they remember their own high school days). Yet chemistry is everywhere, right from the food we eat to the pharmaceuticals we use and the cosmetics we are so fond of.

Therefore, performing certain fun-filled experiments with our high schoolers is a sure-shot way to get the fear of chemistry out of their minds. Where fear stops, curiosity is aroused. Hence, let the learning begin.

Fun-filled chemistry experiments for high school students

1. mystical cloud.

To create the mystical cloud, perform the following steps:

• In an opaque bottle, mix 30% hydrogen peroxide. 
• Lower a tea bag containing potassium iodide into the bottle. 
• The exothermic reaction between the hydrogen peroxide and potassium iodide will rapidly release oxygen gas, forming a large, mystical-looking cloud in the bottle.

Explanation:

This experiment demonstrates the chemical reaction that produces the cloud, as well as the concept of gas formation. The opaque bottle creates a dramatic visual effect, making the cloud appear “mystical.” 

This mystical cloud experiment is sure to catch the eye, as well as the young minds of our high schoolers and get them started on the chemistry journey!

2. Dancing spaghetti experiment

Here is how to do the dancing spaghetti chemistry experiment:

• Pour 1 cup of water into a tall clear glass and add 2 teaspoons of baking soda. Stir until the baking soda is fully dissolved.
• Break uncooked spaghetti noodles into 1-inch pieces and place about 6 pieces into the glass. The spaghetti will sink to the bottom.
• Add 5 teaspoons of vinegar to the glass. Observe as the spaghetti pieces start to rise up and “dance” around due to the chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar producing carbon dioxide gas bubbles.
• As the spaghetti dance slows down, add a bit more vinegar to keep the reaction going and the spaghetti dancing.

The spaghetti dances because the carbon dioxide bubbles attach to the rough surface of the noodles, decreasing their density so they float up. When the bubbles pop at the surface, the spaghetti sinks again until more bubbles form. This demonstrates the principles of buoyancy and chemical reactions.

This dancing spaghetti experiment will help the student understand the magic of chemistry in lifting the spirits of scientific inquiry.

3. Bouncy balls to explore polymer properties

Steps to make the bouncy balls:

• Mix 3 level spoonfuls of Elmer’s glue (which contains the polymer polyvinyl acetate), with 5 mL of water and 1 level spoonful of borax powder(which forms cross-links between the polymer chains). Allow to interact for 10-15 seconds before stirring.
• Once the mixture becomes difficult to stir, remove it from the container and knead it with your hands. The ball will start to be sticky and messy but will solidify as you knead it.
• Record observations about the ball’s appearance, stretchiness, and bounciness.
• Try varying the amounts of glue, water, and borax, or adding cornstarch to see how it affects the final bouncy ball properties.

This experiment allows students to explore how changing the polymer composition and cross-linking affects the physical properties of the resulting material. It’s a great hands-on way to learn about the versatile nature of polymers.

The bouncy balls are an exciting and fun-filled experiment to understand everyday applications of chemistry.

4. Colourful flames experiment

Here are some ways to create colorful flames by adding different chemicals :

• Sprinkle salts like sodium chloride (table salt), copper(II) chloride, strontium chloride, or barium nitrate into an alcohol flame to produce yellow, green, red, or blue colors. The heat excites the atoms in the salts, causing them to emit characteristic colored light as the electrons return to their ground state.
• Soak wood chips or sawdust in solutions of metal salts like copper sulfate (blue-green), strontium chloride (red), lithium chloride (pink), or boric acid (green). Allow to dry, then toss the treated chips onto a campfire to produce colored flames.
• Embed metal salts into paraffin wax to make “colored fire wax cakes”. Melt wax in a double boiler, mix in the desired salts, pour into cupcake liners, and let harden. Toss the wax cakes onto a fire for long-lasting colored flames.

Explanation :

The colors produced depend on the specific metal ions present. Sodium gives yellow, copper gives blue-green, strontium gives red, and barium gives green flames. The colors are produced because the metal ions in the salts emit light at specific wavelengths when heated in the flame. This is the same principle used to create colored fireworks

Creating colorful flames by adding different chemicals to a flame is a beautiful rainbow experiment to spark an igniting and everlasting flame of interest for chemistry.

5. Extracting anthocyanin pigment from red cabbage to create a natural pH indicator

To extract anthocyanin pigment from red cabbage and create a natural pH indicator, follow these steps:

• Chop red cabbage leaves into fine pieces to allow the water to extract the anthocyanins.
• Add the chopped cabbage to a pot and cover with distilled water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally
• Filter the solution through a coffee filter or strainer to remove the cabbage pieces, leaving just the anthocyanin-infused water
• (Optional) Boil off 20-50% of the solution to concentrate the anthocyanins for more vibrant colors.5
• Use the anthocyanin solution to test the pH of various household substances:
• Acids like lemon juice, vinegar, and grapefruit juice will turn the solution red.
• Neutral substances like water will keep the solution blue or purple
• Bases like baking soda and ammonia will turn the solution green or yellow.

The anthocyanin pigments change color due to a chemical reaction that occurs at different pH levels. This natural pH indicator provides a fun way to explore acids, bases, and neutrals.

This red cabbage experiment thus is an exciting experiment to familiarise the students with the entire spectrum of pH with its acids, bases, and neutrals!

6. Elephant toothpaste experiment

The key steps to form the elephant toothpaste foam are:

• Mix 1/2 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide with a squirt of dish soap in a plastic bottle.
• Add a few drops of food coloring if desired.
• In a separate cup, mix 1 tablespoon of yeast with 3 tablespoons of warm water. Stir for 30 seconds.
• Quickly pour the yeast mixture into the bottle and watch the foamy reaction erupt.

The reaction occurs because the catalyst (yeast or potassium iodide) speeds up the decomposition of the hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen gas. The dish soap traps the oxygen bubbles, creating a dramatic foaming effect. The reaction continues as long as there is hydrogen peroxide and a catalyst remaining.

Thus, this exothermic reaction creates the elephant toothpaste, as well as exponentially engages the curiosity of the students performing the experiment.

7. Chromatography with coffee filters

Chromatography with coffee filters is a simple science experiment that demonstrates the separation of colors in ink or dye. To do this experiment:

• Draw a circle with a washable marker on a coffee filter, leaving the center blank. Fold the filter into a triangle. 
• Suspend the folded filter in a cup of water, making sure only the tip touches the water. The water will travel up the filter, separating the colors in the marker. 
• After 15-30 minutes, the colors will separate and become visible on the filter. Common results show blue, green, and red/pink colors emerging from the original black marker. 

This experiment works because of capillary action and chromatography – the water carries the water-soluble dye molecules at different rates through the filter material. However, it is important to remember that Permanent markers do not work as well since their dyes are not water-soluble. 

The separation of colors provides a spectacular result that will surely capture the imagination of young minds!

8. Lava lamp experiment

Steps to create the spectacular lava lamp:

• Fill a clear plastic bottle about 1/4 full with water. Pour vegetable oil into the bottle until it is almost full, then wait a couple of minutes for the oil and water to separate.
• Add a few drops of food coloring, which will sink through the oil, and mix with the water
• Break an Alka-Seltzer tablet into pieces and drop them into the bottle. The tablet will sink to the bottom, start dissolving, and release carbon dioxide gas bubbles.
• The bubbles will attach to the colored water blobs, making them float to the top. When the bubbles pop, the colored water will sink back down.

The lava lamp works because oil is less dense than water, so it floats on top. The food coloring has the same density as water, so it sinks through the oil. The gas bubbles from the Alka-Seltzer are lighter than water, so they float up, bringing the colored water with them

Fun tip: To keep the lava lamp going, just drop in another piece of Alka-Seltzer tablet when the bubbling slows down. Your evergreen lava lamp may just spark a permanent love for all chemicals and chemistry!

9. Magic milk experiment

The magic milk experiment demonstrates how soap interacts with the fats and proteins in milk:

• The magic milk experiment involves pouring milk into a shallow dish and then adding food coloring. 
• It is followed by touching a cotton swab dipped in dish soap to the surface of the milk. This causes the food coloring to swirl and dance around, creating a colorful “fireworks” effect.

The reason this happens is that the soap molecules have a hydrophilic (water-loving) end and a hydrophobic (water-fearing) end. When the soap touches the milk, the hydrophobic ends attach to the fat molecules, causing them to move around rapidly. The food coloring gets swept up in this motion, resulting in a colorful display. 

Another way to get even more creative with the experiment is to try it with different types of milk to see how the fat content affects the results. The more fat in the milk, the more dramatic the color display will be, and faster your student will be fascinated with chemistry!

10. Ammonia fountain experiment

The ammonia fountain experiment demonstrates the high solubility of ammonia gas in water due to hydrogen bonding. Here’s how it works:

• A flask is filled with dry ammonia gas by heating a mixture of calcium hydroxide and ammonium chloride.
• Water is injected into the flask through a syringe, causing the ammonia gas to rapidly dissolve. This creates a partial vacuum inside the flask.
• The external atmospheric pressure forces water up a tube and out through a jet, creating a fountain effect. The ammonia solution is alkaline, so adding a pH indicator like phenolphthalein turns it pink.
• As more ammonia dissolves, the pressure inside the flask drops further, causing the fountain to continue for several minutes.

This experiment illustrates the concepts of solubility, gas laws, and acid-base chemistry at an introductory level. It can also be done with other highly soluble gases like hydrogen chloride.

The ammonia fountain experiment will surely skyrocket your high schooler’s interest in chemistry experiments and the various explanations of the world it opens to them.

Chemistry is often referred to as the “central science” because it connects various fields, including physics, biology, and environmental sciences. Thus, it is absolutely imperative that students not view it as a textbook roadblock on the way to graduation. Rather, it should be seen as an exciting hiking trip that will become more adventurous while passing each milestone. 

The same holds true for physics. And we can prove to you that physics can be fun too with these physics experiments for high school students!

An Engineer, Maths expert, Online Tutor, and animal rights activist. I have more than 5 years of teaching experience and have worked closely with students with learning disorders. I have worked with special educators, counselors, and experts in dealing with common issues that students face during their academic journey.

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Top 10 Chemistry Experiments You Don't Want to Miss

May 03, 2021 3 min read

A few years back we shared a series about how to teach the different areas of science at home, which you can find here:

• Teaching Biology at Home
• Teaching Earth Science at Home
• Teaching Astronomy at Home
• Teaching Chemistry at Home
• Teaching Physics at Home

The posts in the series have remained some of our most popular posts and so we thought we would help you all out by sharing our favorite experiments for each discipline!

So far we have shared our favorite biology , earth science , and astronomy experiments. Today, we are going to share ten of our favorites for chemistry.

And without further ado, here are our top 10 chemistry experiments!

Top 10 Chemistry Experiments

1. Explore marker chromatography.

This STEAM activity versatile enough to do with what you have on hand and definitely delivers the "WOW" factor.

It's a great project for   decorating a tree, making   beautiful butterflies, or for making a scientific version of a   tie-dye t-shirt. Whatever you decide to do with your marker chromatography artwork, the process is the same.

2. Test which one freezes first. 

Winter is a great time to explore the principles of chemistry through experimentation! Although, with a freezer you can enjoy this experiment year-round.

This simple experiment will help your students to see   how salt changes the freezing point of water .

3. Make a bioplastic in your kitchen.

This chemistry experiment shares how to make a simple bioplastic in your microwave!! What is a bioplastic you ask? It's a plasticky material made from biological chemicals.

Now, we can't exactly make a completely hard bioplastic in our microwave. However, we will make a super cool gel-like bioplastic using cornstarch and a few other items.

4. Polishing silver with chemistry.

I know you are thinking - silver polish can't possibly be a super fun chemistry experiment. But, the directions in this post contain the best possible homemade silver polish.

Uncle Cecil and President Lincoln of Sassafras Science fame tried hundreds of experiments just to make sure. This silver-polishing, scientific magic trick will make an afternoon chore into a super fun chemistry experiment.

5. Experiment with Borax.

Borax is an old-school laundry booster that many of the slime recipes use. But what do you do with the rest of the box when you are done? 

You could get all retro and add it to your next load of laundry, but what fun is that? Today, we are going to share with you three chemistry experiments that use Borax - ones that you will want to do over and over again until the whole box is gone!

6. Do a kitchen acid test.

A kitchen acid test is always fun because of the color changes.  But more than that, this hands-on science activity is a great way to show your kids a bit about the chemistry of acids and bases!

7. Send a secret message.

You use chemistry to be like a spy and send a secret message ! This  kitchen science activity is one you can use over and over again.

8. Explode fireworks in your kitchen.

There is a lot of chemistry behind fireworks - the colors alone are due to different chemicals!

And although, you can't explode actual fireworks in your kitchen, but you can learn about them and then do a simple chemistry experiment to see fireworks in your kitchen !

9. Play with dry ice.

Dry ice is a fun way to explore the states of matter. It's one of those materials that appear to boil in room temperature water, sending out billows of white, wispy smoke.

This post shares three  chemistry activities with dry ice from our lab to yours that you can use to explore this amazing material.

10. Mix up a batch of crazy colors.

This chemistry experiment is part color-change , part stink-up-the-kitchen and it requires a bit of preparation, but it is totally worth it! It's one of the best ways to show the difference between acids and bases.

Wrapping it Up

There are loads more options for chemistry experiments out there that we love - in fact, we probably could have done a post with 100 experiments! But these are the ten we don't want you to miss.  If you want more chemistry experiments, check out our   Chemistry Pinterest board .

If you want it all pulled together for you, check out the following our homeschool science programs with easy-to-use plans for teaching chemistry:

• For Preschool –   Intro to Science  and Summer's Lab
• For Elementary Students –  Chemistry for the Grammar Stage  and  Chemistry Lapbooks
• For Middle School Students –   Chemistry for the Logic Stage
• High School Students –  Chemistry for High School

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10 Cool Chemistry Demonstrations for Educators

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• Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
• B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College

Chemistry experiments and demonstrations can capture a student's attention and spark an enduring interest in science. Chemistry demonstrations are also "stock in trade" for science museum educators and mad science-style birthday parties and events. Here's a look at ten chemistry demonstrations, some of which use safe, non-toxic materials to create impressive effects. Be sure you're ready to explain the science behind each of these demonstrations to students who are ready to try the chemistry for themselves.

Colored Fire Spray Bottles

SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images

Mix metal salts in alcohol and pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Spritz the liquid onto a flame to change its color. This is a great introduction to the study of emission spectra and flame tests. The colorants are of low toxicity, so this is a safe demonstration.

Sulfuric Acid and Sugar

422737/Pixabay

Mixing sulfuric acid with sugar is simple, yet spectacular. The highly exothermic reaction produces a steaming black column that pushes itself up from the beaker. This demonstration can be used to illustrate exothermic, dehydration, and elimination reactions. Sulfuric acid can be dangerous, so be sure to keep a safe difference between your demonstration space and your viewers.

Sulfur Hexafluoride and Helium

NEWAYFotostudio/Pixabay

If you breathe sulfur hexafluoride and talk, your voice will be very low. If you breathe helium and talk, your voice will be high and squeaky. This safe demonstration is easy to perform.

Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream

Erstudiostok/Getty Images

This simple demonstration can be used to introduce cryogenics and phase changes. The resulting ice cream tastes great, which is a nice bonus since not many things you do in the chemistry lab are edible.

Oscillating Clock Reaction

David Mulder/Flickr/CC BY 2.0

Three colorless solutions are mixed together. The color of the mixture oscillates between clear, amber, and deep blue. After about three to five minutes, the liquid stays a blue-black color.

Barking Dog Demonstration

Maxim Bilovitskiy/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 4.0

The Barking Dog chemistry demonstration is based on the reaction between nitrous oxide or nitrogen monoxide and carbon disulfide. Igniting the mixture in a long tube produces a bright blue flash, accompanied by a characteristic barking or woofing sound. The reaction can be used to demonstrate chemiluminescence, combustion, and exothermic reactions. This reaction does involve the potential for injury, so be sure to keep a distance between viewers and demonstration space.

Water Into Wine or Blood

Tastyart Ltd Rob White/Getty Images

This color change demonstration is used to introduce pH indicators and acid-base reactions. Phenolphthalein is added to water, which is poured into a second glass containing a base. If the pH of the resulting solution is right, you can make the liquid switch between red and clear indefinitely.

Blue Bottle Demonstration

U5780199/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 4.0

The red-clear color change of the water into wine or blood demo is classic, but you can use pH indicators to produce other color changes. The blue bottle demonstration alternates between blue and clear. These instructions also include information on performing a red-green demonstration.

White Smoke Demonstration

Portra/Getty Images

This is a nice phase change demonstration. React a jar of liquid and an apparently empty jar to make smoke (you're actually mixing hydrochloric acid with ammonia ). The white smoke chemistry demonstration is easy to perform and visually appealing, but because the materials can be toxic it's important to keep viewers at a safe distance.

Nitrogen Triiodide Demonstration

BunGee/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 4.0

Iodine crystals are reacted with concentrated ammonia to precipitate nitrogen triiodide. The nitrogen triiodide is so unstable that the slightest contact causes it to decompose into nitrogen and iodine gas, producing a very loud snap and a cloud of purple iodine vapor.

Chemistry Demonstrations and Safety Considerations

These chemistry demonstrations are intended for use by trained educators, not unsupervised children or even adults without proper safety gear and experience. Demonstrations involving fire, in particular, always carry some degree of risk. Be sure to wear proper safety gear (safety goggles, gloves, closed-toe shoes, etc.) and use appropriate precautions. For fire demonstrations, be sure to have a working fire extinguisher handy. Maintain a safe distance between demonstrations and the class/audience.

• Interesting High School Chemistry Demonstrations
• Briggs-Rauscher Oscillating Color Change Reaction
• Color Change Chemistry Experiments
• 18 Fun Christmas Chemistry Projects
• 10 Cool Chemistry Experiments
• 10 Fun Chemistry Demonstrations and Experiments
• Sulfuric Acid and Sugar Demonstration
• Hydrogen Balloon Explosion Experiment
• Leidenfrost Effect Demonstrations
• Dissolve Styrofoam in Acetone
• Water - Wine - Milk - Beer Chemistry Demonstration
• How To Make Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream
• Halloween Reaction or Old Nassau Reaction
• Sodium in Water Chemistry Demonstration
• Candy Chemistry Projects
• Gifts for Science Geeks and Nerds

• Activities for Kids

49 Science Experiments for Kids to Try at Home

Looking for science experiments for kids? Thanks to common household ingredients, some ingenuity, and our guide, these at-home science experiments for kids make any day exciting. To help you prepare, we’ve rated each experiment from one to five sponges so you know the messiness factor ahead of time. If you’re looking for seasonal projects, check out these water-themed science experiments . Or how about a few science projects for kids that are perfect for the backyard ?

TIP: Did you know there are a ton of awesome science kits and subscription boxes that will further develop your child’s love of science? KiwiCrate is one of our favorite ed-tech companies, as they offer seriously fun & enriching science & art projects, for kids 0 months up to 13+.

Classic Science Experiments for Kids

Potato battery science experiment.

A lesson in: Chemical to electrical energy

When these nails and copper wires collide, heat is generated (psst ... heat is a result of expended energy, so you can explain to your little runner why he feels warmer after a race around the house). But with some potato magic, the properties of the nail and copper stay separated, allowing the heat to become the electric energy needed to power up your devices. Build your own potato battery with this tutorial from Wiki How .

Messiness factor: One sponge

Make a Baking Soda & Vinegar "Steam" Powered Boat

A lesson in: Chemical reactions

Sure, anyone can do the old baking soda and vinegar volcano, but what about creating a boat that is propelled by this classic chemical reaction ? Keep your little Einsteins busy this afternoon with this cool science project for kids that doesn't require a lot of prep. 

Messiness factor: Three sponges

Make Water Float

A lesson in: Air pressure

Can you make water float? We bet you can. No, you don’t need to be a wizard or a witch. You don’t need to cast a spell. There’s nothing magic about it at all, in fact. You can make water float using science. The “trick” to this experiment is air pressure. Get everything you need and the how-to, right here , thanks to Mike Adamick and his book, Dad's Book of Awesome Science Experiments .

Messiness factor: Two sponges

Photo by Mike Adamick. Copyright © 2014 F+W Media, Inc. Used by permission of the publisher. All rights reserved.

Germ Testing Science Project for Kids

A lesson in: Germs

This germ-growing science project for kids will help them understand how even the cleanest-looking surfaces (and hands) can be filled with germs, is one of the easiest science experiments for kids we've found. Get the fun and yucky instructions at Kids Activity Blog .

Make an Edible Water Bottle

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A lesson in: Chemistry and specifically, spherification.

This futuristic science experiment will leave your kids wanting to know more about chemistry. Quench her thirst for knowledge when you create an edible membrane around teaspoons of water to make these handy water “bottles.” The tutorial is in video form over at Inhabitat.  Trust us, it’s as cool as it looks!

Messiness factor: One sponge.

Make Crystal Egg Geodes

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A lesson in: Molecular bonding and chemistry.

This grow-your-own experiment lets you grow crystals inside an eggshell. Be sure to get alum powder that contains potassium, or else you won’t get any crystal growth. Adding drops of food dye to the growing solution yields some super cool crystals. A perfectly formed geode takes about 12-15 hours to grow, making this a great weekend project. Get the tutorial for this science experiment for kids at Art and Soul.

Messiness factor: Four sponges.

Check the Iron in Breakfast Cereal

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A lesson in: Magnetism.

You’ve probably seen the label that says “fortified with iron” on your cereal box, but how much iron is actually in your cereal? Is there enough to cause a magnetic reaction? This super easy experiment doesn’t require too many fancy ingredients (cereal + magnet) which means you and the kiddos can try it right away. The results may surprise you! Get the how-to at Rookie Parenting and get started!

Messiness Factor: Two sponges.

Learn About Shooting Stars

A lesson in: Astronomy

With this fun video from They Might Be Giants , kids can learn that shooting stars are not stars, they're meteorites. Then, take it out back for a fun backyard stargazing session. We love this science experiment you can do at home! 

Messiness Factor: One sponge

Related:  14 Backyard Science Experiments for Kids

Marshmallow Tower

A lesson in: Engineering

Using only marshmallows and dry spaghetti noodles, kids can experiment with structure, stability, and weight distribution. Get the instructions from Kesler Science by clicking here.  

Messiness factor : 1 sponge

Paper Airplane Science

A lesson in: Aerodynamics

By making various paper airplanes , your scientists can test the drag of each plane, which will have an effect on how far they fly. Get more info on this science project for kids here .

Messiness factor: 1 sponge

Walk on Eggs

A lesson in: Weight distribution

How can you walk on eggs without breaking them? Steve Spengler shows us how and teaches an awesome lesson on how an egg’s unique shape gives it tremendous strength, despite its seeming fragility. Check out this easy science experiment for kids to get started.

Messiness factor: 1-3 sponges, depending on the state of the eggs in the end!

A Lesson in: Molecules

Fill a shallow dish with milk, drop food coloring, and make sure the drops don't touch. Then, dip a cotton swab in dish soap and place it in the middle of the dish. The colors will begin to swirl and seem as though they are moving on their own! Explain to your kids that the soap reduces surface tension and makes the fat molecules in the milk move. Click here for more science experiments that use food coloring.

Messiness Factor: 2 sponges

Professor Egghead's Lesson about Light

A Lesson in : Light

Learn all about the sun and what it gives humans (think energy and warmth!) You'll also do an experiment to learn about different kinds of light, even ultraviolet rays. Get the video from Professor Egghead here.  

Messiness factor: 1 sponge 

Cup Amplifier

A lesson in: Sound

Slide a mobile phone into this low-tech amplifier and the result will be music to your ears. The audio is deeper, richer, and louder, thanks to the science of sound waves and the natural amplification created by the cone-shaped cups. If the two cups look a bit like the attentive ears of a cat or fox, that’s no coincidence. Animal ears use the same science, but in reverse: they help creatures hear by gathering sound waves and directing them into the ear. For engineers, that’s a design worth copying.

Customize your amplifier to fit any size phone!

Tabs cut all around the hold make it easy to glue the cardboard tube in place.

Cut a slot with a flap to support your phone.

What’s Going On The Cup Amplifier focuses and projects sound waves, in the same way that a cheerleader’s megaphone (or even just your cupped hands) amplifies your voice. Once sound waves are created, they want to spread out in all directions. The amplifier directs them from your phone’s speakers into the cardboard cups, where, instead of scattering, they are gathered and channeled in one direction—out the openings.

Excerpted from  Cardboard Box Engineering  © 2020 by Jonathan Adolph. Used with permission from Storey Publishing.

Skittles Science

A Lesson in: Stratification

A great way to get rid of extra candy, this easy science experiment for kids uses Skittles and whatever liquids you want to use. The idea is, the candy is made of ingredients that dissolve, so kids get a chance to guess which liquid will make the Skittles dissolve the fastest. Get more info over at Little Bins for Little Hands . 

Find Out How Many Water Drops Fit on a Coin

A Lesson in: Chemistry

An easy science experiment to do at home is one that helps kids find out what affects the surface tension of water! You'll need basic materials like a penny and a water dropper, and be sure to make a hypothesis before you start. You might be surprised! Get the tutorial from Rookie Parenting . 

Pulley Experiment

A Lesson in: Physics

This simple experiment requires a trip to the hardware store, but putting it all together is a cinch. Once you've completed the system, have your kids pick up different-sized rocks and make a note about how difficult it is. Then, try with the pulley. Is it easier or is it harder? To find out how to make your pulley, and for other questions to ask your kids, head over to Little Bins for Little Hands . 

Make a Volcano Explode

A Lesson in: Chemical reactions

There's a reason why this science experiment is so popular. When the solid baking soda (sodium bicarbonate—a base) mixes with the liquid vinegar (acetic acid—a weak acid), it creates a gas—carbon dioxide! Besides the chemical reaction, kids enjoy making the actual volcano, whether it's out of clay, mud, or foam sheets. Get a great step-by-step tutorial from The Dad’s Book of Awesome Science Experiments by clicking here . 

Messiness Factor: Four sponges

Bake Hygroscopic Cookies

A Lesson in: Hygroscopy. 

This simple science experiment is best when you check in on it the next morning. Bake up a batch of cookies, then place them in an airtight container with a piece of fresh bread. Watch as the cookies stay straight-from-the-oven soft thanks to the moisture of the bread (The sugar in the cookies is hygroscopic, which means it absorbs water molecules out of the bread). The best part? Getting to eat the cookies!

The Juice-Tasting Challenge

A lesson in : Taste buds and olfactory senses.

Tummy’s rumbling–it’s time to eat! Did you know that you “eat” with your nose and eyes as well as your mouth? It’s true. Put your family’s sense of smell and sight to the test with this juice-guessing game.

You’ll Need: Masking tape 4 glasses Pen and paper 4 flavors of juice 4 food colorings

How to: 1. Stack a piece of tape on the bottom of each glass and number them one to four, making sure your partner can’t see the numbers. Pour one type of juice into each glass.

2. Send your partner out of the room. Drip a different food coloring into each juice and stir so your partner can’t recognize the juice by its color alone. Record the number, juice type, and color in each glass on a piece of paper.

3. Call your partner back. Tell her to hold her nose, sip from each glass, and guess the juice If she’s like most people, she’ll be kind of confused–her eyes and tongue give her two conflicting flavor messages.

4. Ask her to unplug her nose, close her eyes, and sniff the juice before drinking it. Her guesses should be on target now. All hail the mighty schnoz!

Reprinted from  Exploralab: 150+ Ways to Investigate the Amazing Science All Around You . 

Messiness factor: One sponge. 

Experiment with Tie Dye

A lesson in: Chemistry.

Dyes are fiber reactive, so there's a chemical reaction between the dye and the fabric. You can do this experiment with everything from paper to t-shirts. We've got a great list of tie-dye projects here . 

Messiness Factor : Five sponges.

Make a Sundial

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Unravel the mysteries of time. Or at least figure out the basics by setting up a sundial outside . Take time each hour to check the sun’s positioning and make note of it so your sidekick can see the bigger picture.

Messiness Factor : One sponge

Dry Ice Bubbles

A lesson in: Gas.

Dry ice is already cool enough on its own, but it takes science to turn them into bubbles. When you add water, it changes the temperature of the dry ice, causing the ice to go from solid to gas. That’s where the fog and bubbles come from! Head to Simply Modern Mom to get the full tutorial. But be careful: Dry ice can cause serious skin burns, so make sure your kids are well-supervised and know not to touch the ice.

Messiness factor: Three sponges.

Invisible Licorice

A lesson in : Light and perspective.

Did the candy melt or disappear? Your sweetums might think it’s magic, but it’s really all about how oil redirects light, causing half the candy to disappear! Click here for the instructions on how to recreate this mind-warping experiment.

Egg in a Bottle

Your whistler has the basics of air pressure down just by using their mouth to blow. And now you can amaze them with this science experiment for kids. There is a little fire play involved (dropping a lit paper into the bottle), but that’s what causes the unbalanced air pressure, which pushes the egg into the bottle. Want to test it out? Head over to Steve Spangler Science for the tutorial.

Invisible Ink

A lesson in: Oxidation.

If your snacker has noticed how their apples have turned brown after being left out for too long, then they’ve seen oxidization in action (loss of electrons and nutrients when in contact with oxygen). Fortunately, lemon juice only oxidizes when in contact with heat. This method works with baking soda and milk too. Click here to find out how to write secret messages with your little spy.

Kid-Safe Lava Lamps

A lesson in: Density and intermolecular polarity.

These sound like big words for our little ones, but there’s an easier way to break it down. Water and oil won’t mix because they’re not the same “weight” or substance (just like clay and LEGOs won’t become one). Now add a drop of food coloring (which is heavier than oil) and a fizzy tablet and watch the air bubbles take coloring with them to the top. Head on over to S. L. Smith’s blog to see how it’s done .

Messiness factor: Two sponges.

A Lesson in: Crystallization.

Be careful: The water only has the power to make the sugar crystals “invisible” when it’s piping hot. After the water cools down and evaporates, the sugar turns back into a solid. And with a little help of your sugar-soaked string, the crystals will find a home to grow upon and become rock candy. Learn how to make your smart sweets with these instructions from the Exploratorium .  

S'more Solar Oven

A lesson in: Solar power.

Harness the power of the sun to make your favorite campfire treat! With just a few common household items you can create an  eco-friendly oven  just for melting marshmallows and chocolate, plus you can teach kids about the power of the sun. Click  here  to learn how.

Homemade Slime

A lesson in: Polymers.

Is it a liquid or solid? The answer is both! This DIY slime—made from glue, borax, and water—is also known as a polymer (molecules that can stick close together to be a solid or spread apart and take liquid form). And it’s all thanks to borax, which acts as a binder to prevent the glue from going completely liquid. Check out Explorable’s recipe for mixing the ingredients . Prolong the life of your goo by keeping it in an airtight container in the fridge. And, if you need help with cleanup, check out our guide for how to get slime out of clothes, couches, and hair . 

Make Fizzy Lemonade

Plain old fresh-squeezed lemonade is so last year. Boost the fun quotient and learn a simple science concept simultaneously when you recreate this edible Fizzy Lemonade drink from  Learn With Play at Home . It’s super easy to mix and little sippers report it’s pretty tickly too. A great alternative to the baking soda-vinegar volcano, it shows kids what happens when an acid and base are mixed together. 

Whirlpool in a Bottle

A lesson in: physics, weather science. 

This easy little experiment doesn't take much: just two empty and clear 2-liter bottles, a metal washer, water and duct tape. Food coloring is optional. Fill one bottle with about two-thirds water. Place the washer on the bottle and line up the empty bottle on top of the water-filled one. Wrap the duct tape around the middle securing the two bottles together. Then, turn the bottles upside down. Does the water go straight down or do you see a mini whirlpool (Swirl the top or bottom a bit for a better effect.)? The spinning water is called a vortex, and all tornadoes, hurricanes and typhoons are examples of air vortexes. Since you’re using water, this is an example of a whirlpool. As the water spins faster, it pushes to the outside of the bottle creating a hole in the middle. The air from the bottom of the bottle comes up the middle and the water from the top flows back down through the hole.

Messiness factor : Two sponges.

Salt Crystal Feathers

A lesson in: Evaporation

You’ve probably tried a salt crystal growing kit at some point in your life (5th grade Science Fair perhaps?) but Schooling a Monkey takes the idea to a new level with these Salt Crystal Feathers. This awe-inspiring project is deceptively simple and inexpensive to achieve, and requires just a wee bit of patience to see the results—kids will love checking in on the progress. 

Soda Blasting Experiment

A lesson in: Chemistry, pressure, and release of pressure

This experiment is one you'll definitely want to do outside. Step it up with this Mentos + soda experiment: head to Steve Spangler  for all the need-to-know details on this engaging experiment. 

Messiness factor: Three (very epic) sponges

Melting Rates

A lesson in: Solar science and absorption

Different colors have different heat-absorbing capacities. Black has the greatest heat-absorbing capacity, which results in ice melting quicker than white, which reflects the most light. Learn how to observe and report on which colors affect ice’s melting rates here on Curiodyssey.  Get more sidewalk science ideas here .

Make Elephant Toothpaste

A lesson in:  Chemistry and the exothermic process <<<impress your kids! 

If you’ve ever wondered how elephants keep their tusks clean, we’ve got the answer. They use elephant toothpaste! Find out how to mix your own and figure out the science behind this dynamic exothermic (heat-releasing) reaction from Fun at Home With Kids . Our favorite part? That you get to throw in some sensory playtime after the action’s over.

Messiness factor:  Three sponges. Maybe four. 

Bending Water with a Comb

A lesson in: Electrical currents and static electricity

This  static electricity science experiment couldn't be any easier. In fact, other than a balloon or going down the slide, it might be the easiest way to teach kids about electrical currents. And, you can impress them with your wizarding skills once before you reveal the science behind it. Click here to get the step-by-step. 

Regrow Leftovers

A lesson in : Photosynthesis and plant science.

Insert a little plant science into the mix by re-growing food from scraps. Think onions, potatoes, and lettuce for this one ( psst… green onions are a super easy, fast option). Get the low down on all that recycled goodness at Mrs. Happy Homemaker . Since plants need water and sunlight to grow, exposing scrap roots to that winning combo helps them recharge.

Messiness factor:  Two sponges.

Turning Pennies Green

A lesson in: Chemical reactions.

It happens to the Statue of Liberty and it happens to the change in your pocket! Create your own home lab with just a few household ingredients (this experiment will literally cost you just pennies). It’s also a chemical reaction with very non-toxic ingredients, so it’s safe and fascinating even for young kids. Click over to Buggy and Buddy to get the simple how-to.

Film Canister Rocket

A lesson in: Rocket science.

Like the popular baking soda and vinegar experiments, this film canister rocket literally takes it to the next level by using that creation of gas and energy to jet off into the sky. If your explorer has seen videos of mountain tops getting blown off during a volcanic eruption, this science project is pretty much any space lover’s version. Get the building instructions over at The Science Kiddo .

Disappearing Egg Shell

Can you and the kiddos solve the mysterious case of the disappearing eggshell? Following the simple how-to at Go Science Kids , you’ll learn the step-by-step and talking points about the process along the way. Warning! Although it’s totally non-toxic, toddler-aged kids will be tempted to squeeze the egg at the end so make sure it’s a supervised experiment. Visit Go Science Kids to get cracking!

Fishing for Ice

A lesson in: Freezing/temperature.

Children living in snow-covered cities might witness their neighbors salting the driveway. Well, while that is definitely not for fun, this experiment is. Salt lowers the freezing point of ice so it melts, but it won’t be able to freeze unless it’s cold enough. See how The Science Kiddo made a clever game with this knowledge.

A lesson in: How clouds hold water.

Let your imagineers pretend shaving cream is a cloud that holds colorful raindrops. As they squeeze more and more food coloring, their “cloud” will soon release the excess below—just like how real clouds get too heavy and let the rain loose on a gloomy day. Learn how to re-create this weather experiment here .

Dyed Plants

A lesson in: Capillary action.

Find out how plants “drink” water with some food coloring . Use carnations, roses, or stalks of celery submerged in the colored water and watch the liquid slowly seep through the plant’s “veins” and towards the leaves. Keep an eye out -- you could have a very colorful bouquet just after the first day. Get the rundown by Dad’s Book of Awesome Science Experiments  over  here .

Dancing Oobleck

A lesson in: Sound waves.

The word “oobleck” comes from a Dr. Seuss story where a young boy must rescue his kingdom from a sticky substance. But the neat part of this experiment is how oobleck reacts to vibrations. Put the oobleck over a subwoofer (on top of a cookie sheet!) and watch it dance to different frequencies. Your dancer will see how sound isn’t just about volume! Check out more of this awesome experiment from Tammy of Housing a Forest .

Messiness factor: Five sponges.

Homemade Lightning

A lesson in: Static electricity. (Or weather science.)

Lightning is essentially electrons moving uber fast between the sky and the earth—and with a few simple materials, you can use homemade static electricity (the reason behind your hair sticking up when you rub a balloon or go through a tunnel slide super fast) for DIY lightning. Figure out how to recreate a family-friendly version of this spark by visiting the activity blog Learn Play Imagine .

Make a Bug Vacuum

A Lesson in: Entomology

Scientists capture bugs for study using a mouth-powered vacuum, called an aspirator or a pooter. Kids can make their own version from a mason jar, then use it to gather ants (or other small insects) and observe them in action.

What you'll need: Pint-size mason jar with a two-piece lid Milk or juice carton Hole punch 2 bendy straws Tape Gauze pad

How to:  1. Open the milk carton along the seams and flatten it out. Use the inner lid of the mason jar as a template to trace a circle on the carton. Cut out the circle and punch two holes in the center about an inch apart.

2. Carefully slide the short ends of the bendy straws into the holes. Tape a piece of gauze pad around the end of one straw to prevent any bugs from getting sucked up.

3 Set the lid on the jar and fasten it in place with the ring.

4. To use your pooter, place the tip of the straw without the gauze near a bug. Put your mouth on the straw with the gauze, and gently suck in. The bug should travel up the straw and land unharmed at the bottom of the jar.

Take It Further Capture some ants in your bug vacuum, then use a magnifying glass to observe these remarkable insects up close. Open the jar and feed them a few drops of sugary water or corn syrup, or try giving them some birdseed. Ants live in colonies headed by a queen ant, and they can’t last long on their own. When you are done observing them, release your ants where you found them. (Note: Some ants bite, so be careful handling them.)

Tell Me More Ants were the Earth’s first farmers. For millions of years, certain species have been creating underground gardens where they grow their favorite fungus for food. They tend to their crops, bringing them water and even weeding out other fungi they don’t want.

Excerpted from Mason Jar Science © by Jonathan Adolph, used with permission from Storey Publishing . Available online , $12.69.

Messiness Factor : One sponge. 

A Smell Challenge

A Lesson in: Olfactory senses.

Teach kids the importance of smell with this activity that asks them to use only their noses to identify objects. Can they sniff out the fish oil over the garlic cloves? The lemon juice over the orange oil? Homeschooling blogger Ana has the instructions at Babble Dabble Do .

Is This Soluble?

A Lesson in: Mixtures 

Teaching children chemistry can become a fun, at-home activity as a weekend afternoon project or as part of their remote learning curriculum. One of the best experiments you can do is the mixing activity. With this exercise, children will learn the difference between soluble and insoluble substances. Do not worry! You can do it with ingredients you already have in your kitchen!

Ingredients

• Oil (cooking oil, vegetable oil, olive oil, etc.)
• Food Coloring
• Transparent containers with a lid or transparent cups with a spoon to mix

Before you begin the activity, ask the children what each ingredient is—whether it is a solid, liquid, or gas—and what they think will happen when you begin mixing them. This guarantees a hands-on experiment that will allow the children to feel they are in control.

• Mix the water and the sand. Children will notice there is a separation between both ingredients and that layers have formed, so it is an insoluble reaction.
• Mix the water and the food coloring. Children will see them combine—the water turning into that color—and know it is a soluble reaction.
• Mix the water and the table salt. The salt will disappear in the water, making it another soluble reaction.
• Mix the water and the oil. This time, a clear layer will be formed, showing another insoluble reaction.

After these mixing activities, you can further this experiment by letting the children find other ingredients to mix with water and have them determine if that substance is soluble or insoluble. The main goal is to show them different reactions and layers.

For a clear example of this experiment, check out this video .

Messiness factor: 2 sponges 

Experiment courtesy of Dr. Stephanie Ryan. See more fun about science over at letslearnaboutscience.com

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