The *All Seasons* Science Club is a collection of fun, kid-friendly science experiments and STEM projects explained.
As school ends, millions of kids are released from a strict schedule of learning and innovating. As a kid who grew up with a science teacher, a mom, and an engineering dad, I spent my summers doing science experiments and STEM projects. I came out of every summer with many new skills and knowledge of the world around me. Working with young kids at the library, I teach these experiments to others.
Fall is my favorite season due to the plethora of enjoyable activities it offers. Hiking, leaf peeping, and apple picking are among my top choices, but my absolute favorite is carving pumpkins. Besides using candles to illuminate your creations, you can also utilize baking soda and vinegar to create an exciting display.
Baking soda and vinegar rank as one of the most popular science experiments in classrooms across the nation. This experiment utilizes household items and is easy to prepare and clean up afterward. To enhance the fall theme, we can incorporate another element into the mix.
When baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, mixes with vinegar or acetic acid, a chemical reaction occurs. The result is a fizzing and bubbling effect that releases carbon dioxide. This is a classic illustration of an acid-base reaction.
The interaction between baking soda and vinegar is rooted in their classifications as a base and an acid. The position of these substances on the pH scale determines their classification. The pH scale measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance and assigns it a numerical value. This scale is frequently utilized for quality control in water treatment facilities and other industries. Understanding the pH of a product is crucial, as it can significantly impact its reactions and overall effectiveness.
A base, like baking soda, releases or binds hydrogen ions and can break down fat molecules. Specifically, baking soda is effective for cleaning because it can decompose fats and hair. In contrast, an acid like vinegar releases hydrogen ions when diluted in water. This property also contributes to its effectiveness in cleaners as acids react with limescale and various minerals. When combined, acids and bases produce a reaction that generates carbon dioxide.
Now, to carve the pumpkin. This is a step that requires some sharp tools, so make sure to ask your adult to help you. Choose a small pumpkin and cut a ring around the stem. Use a spoon to scoop out all the guts and seeds. You can save the seeds to roast and eat. After you scoop out all the guts, put the top back on the pumpkin and start to map out your face. When you are carving your pumpkin, carve an open mouth and one close to the bottom of the pumpkin. Carve some eyes and a nose of any shape.
The Materials
Your carved pumpkin
Food coloring
Baking soda
Dish Soap
Vinegar
Tray
The Experiment
Put your carved pumpkin onto your tray with tall sides.
Fill the bottom of the pumpkin with three tablespoons of baking soda and a small amount of dish soap. The dish soap is optional, but it makes a foamy reaction.
Mix two cups of vinegar with a couple of drops of food coloring.
When you are ready for the reaction, make sure to have paper towels ready. Pour the vinegar into the baking soda and watch your pumpkin throw the reaction up.
Have fun with the experiment by adding glitter or different food coloring. Happy fall and Halloween!
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