Elephant toothpaste is a fun science experiment that creates a foaming chemical reaction that resembles a giant tube of toothpaste. The experiment requires a few simple ingredients, including:
- Empty plastic bottle
- Warm water
- Liquid dish soap
- Liquid food coloring (optional)
- 3% hydrogen peroxide
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Safety glasses
- Large tub or tray to catch the foam, or outdoor location to do the experiment
To perform the experiment, you pour 1/2 cup of hydrogen peroxide into the bottle, add a big squirt of dish soap, and swirl gently to mix. Then, add a few drops of food coloring if desired. Finally, add a mixture of warm water and yeast to the bottle, and watch as the foam erupts from the bottle.
Positive aspects of the experiment include that it is easy to set up and perform, and it creates a visually impressive reaction that can be used to engage and excite children about science. Negative aspects include that hydrogen peroxide can irritate skin and eyes, so safety glasses should be worn, and the experiment should be done on a washable surface or in a tray to contain the foam.
In summary, the ingredients for the elephant toothpaste experiment include hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, warm water, yeast, and food coloring (optional). Safety glasses should be worn, and the experiment should be done on a washable surface or in a tray to contain the foam.
