Homemade Science Experiment – Elephant Toothpaste

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Bear and I love doing science experiments at home. One, it’s hands-on and it’s super fun (okay, that’s two), but also, a lot of the ingredients and materials we use are SUPER CHEAP.

That being said, let me introduce you to the Elephant Toothpaste Experiment.

Here are the instructions courtesy of ScienceBob:

A clean 16 ounce (473 ml) plastic soda bottle or a water bottle.
20-Volume hydrogen peroxide liquid (20-volume is a 6% solution which is stronger than what you find in most pharmacies. It is typically used for lightening hair and is found at many beauty supply stores. You can use the 3% hydrogen peroxide found in pharmacies, but the reaction will be a bit smaller)
1 Tablespoon (15ml – one packet) of dry yeast
3+ Tablespoons (15 ml) of warm water
Liquid dish washing soap
Food coloring
Small cup
Funnel
Safety goggles
Adult help

NOTE: The foam could overflow from the bottle, so be sure to do this experiment on a washable surface, or place the bottle on a tray.

CAUTION: The unreacted hydrogen peroxide can irritate skin and eyes. Read the safety information on the hydrogen peroxide bottle and be sure to wear safety goggles.

Use a funnel to carefully pour 1/2 cup (118 ml) of the hydrogen peroxide liquid into the bottle
Add about 10 drops of your favorite food coloring into the bottle.
Add about 1 tablespoon (15ml) of liquid dish soap into the bottle and swish the bottle around a bit to mix it.
In a separate small cup, combine the warm water and the yeast together and mix for about 30 seconds. It should be about the consistency of melted ice cream – add a bit more warm water if needed.
Now the adventure starts! Use the funnel to pour the yeast-water mixture into the bottle and watch the foaminess begin!

And of course, we have a video!