Lava Lamp

At home for 11-14 14-16

Activity time 15 mins

What you need

A large glass
Lemonade (or fizzy water)
Peanuts (or raisins)

Instructions

Fill the glass with lemonade
Stir for 1 min or leave to go slightly flat
Drop some peanuts into the glass

Results and Explanation

The nuts float up to the top and fall back down again, like in a lava lamp. Gas bubbles grow on the peanuts, making them float upwards. When they reach the top the bubbles burst and the peanuts fall back down again.

These experiments have not been specifically safety tested for home use but we believe them to be safe if the instructions are followed. Adult supervision or direction is recommended as appropriate. All experiments are carried out at your own risk.