educational at home chemistry experiments

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45 Cool Chemistry Experiments, Demos, and Science Fair Projects

Don’t forget your safety equipment!

Bunsen burners, colorful chemicals, and the possibility of a (controlled) explosion or two? Everybody loves chemistry experiments! We’ve rounded up the best activities, demos, and chemistry science fair projects for kids and teens. Try them in the classroom or at home.

Easy Chemistry Experiments and Activities for All Ages

Chemistry science fair projects.

These chemistry experiments and activities are all easy to do using simple supplies you probably already have. Families can try them at home, or teachers and students can do them together in the classroom.

Mix up some magic milk

Kids love this colorful experiment, which explores the concept of surface tension. This is one of our favorite chemistry experiments to try at home, since the supplies are so basic and the results are so cool!

Taste the Rainbow

Teach your students about diffusion while creating a beautiful and tasty rainbow. You’ll definitely want to have extra Skittles on hand so your class can enjoy a few as well!

Learn more: Skittles Diffusion

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

Make elephant-sized toothpaste

This fun project uses yeast and a hydrogen peroxide solution to create overflowing “elephant toothpaste.” You can also add an extra fun layer by having kids create toothpaste wrappers for their plastic bottles.

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

Demonstrate the “magic” leakproof bag

So simple and so amazing! All you need is a zip-top plastic bag, sharp pencils, and some 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

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! Finally, have them record their observations.

Learn more: Apple Oxidation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

Blow up a balloon (without blowing)

Chances are good you probably did easy science experiments like this when you were in school yourself. This well-known activity demonstrates the reactions between acids and bases. Fill a bottle with vinegar and a balloon with baking soda. Fit the balloon over the top, shake the baking soda down into the vinegar, and watch the balloon inflate.

Learn more: Balloon Experiments

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.

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

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.

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.

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

Set popcorn dancing

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.

Learn more: Dancing Popcorn Experiment

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: Mentos and Coke Experiment

All of these chemistry experiments are perfect for using the scientific method. Form a hypothesis, alter the variables, and then observe the results! You can simplify these projects for younger kids, or add more complexity for older students.

Break apart covalent bonds

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium

Break the covalent bond of H 2 O into H and O with this simple experiment. You only need simple supplies for this one. Turn it into a science fair project by changing up the variables—does the temperature of the water matter? What happens if you try this with other liquids?

Learn more: Breaking Covalent Bonds

Measure the calories in various foods

Are the calorie counts on your favorite snacks accurate? Build your own calorimeter and find out! This kit from Home Science Tools has all the supplies you’ll need.

Detect latent fingerprints

Forensic science is engrossing and can lead to important career opportunities too. Explore the chemistry needed to detect latent (invisible) fingerprints, just like they do for crime scenes!

Learn more: Fingerprints Project

Use Alka-Seltzer to explore reaction rate

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Easy

Tweak this basic concept to create a variety of high school chemistry science fair projects. Change the temperature, surface area, pressure, and more to see how reaction rates change.

Determine whether sports drinks really have more electrolytes than other beverages

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Advanced

Are those pricey sports drinks really worth it? Try this experiment to find out. You’ll need some special equipment for this one; buy a complete kit at Home Science Tools .

Turn flames into a rainbow

You’ll need to get your hands on a few different chemicals for this experiment, but the wow factor will make it worth the effort. Make it a science project by seeing if different materials, air temperature, or other factors change the results.

Discover the size of a mole

The mole is a key concept in chemistry, so it’s important to ensure students really understand it. This experiment uses simple materials like salt and chalk to make an abstract concept more concrete. Make it a project by applying the same procedure to a variety of substances, or determining whether outside variables have an effect on the results.

Learn more: How Big Is a Mole?

Cook up candy to learn mole and molecule calculations

This edible experiment lets students make their own peppermint hard candy while they calculate mass, moles, molecules, and formula weights. Tweak the formulas to create different types of candy and make this into a sweet science fair project!

Learn more: Candy Chemistry

Make soap to understand saponification

Take a closer look at an everyday item: soap! Use oils and other ingredients to make your own soap, learning about esters and saponification. Tinker with the formula to find one that fits a particular set of parameters.

Learn more: Saponification

Uncover the secrets of evaporation

Explore the factors that affect evaporation, then come up with ways to slow them down or speed them up for a simple science fair project.

Learn more: Evaporation

More Chemistry Experiment Science Fair Ideas

These questions and prompts can spark ideas for unique chemistry experiments:

• Compare the properties of sugar and artificial sweeteners.
• Explore the impact of temperature, concentration, and seeding on crystal growth.
• Test various antacids on the market to find the most effective product.
• What is the optimum temperature for yeast production when baking bread from scratch?
• Compare the vitamin C content of various fruits and vegetables.
• How does temperature affect enzyme-catalyzed reactions?
• Investigate the effects of pH on an acid-base chemical reaction.
• Devise a new natural way to test pH levels (such as cabbage leaves).
• What’s the best way to slow down metal oxidation (the form of rust)?
• How do changes in ingredients and method affect the results of a baking recipe?

Like these chemistry experiments? Don’t miss STEM Activities for Kids of All Ages and Interests .

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70 Best High School Science Fair Projects in Every Subject

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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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110 Awesome Chemistry Experiments For All Ages

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Chemistry experiments are a great way to get kids excited about studying chemistry even at a young age. I mean, what child doesn’t think about creating bubbling potions or sending secret messages?

The study of chemistry has a scary connotation for many people. Chemistry has this stigma of being only for really, really smart students who want a career in the sciences. The truth is that, like all science, chemistry is everywhere.

In fact, chemistry experiments for kids can be bubbly and full of fungi! Check out the video below of our Making Peeps Blow Up a Balloon chemistry activity.

It is in the way water freezes into ice . It is in the way apples turn brown when you leave their flesh exposed to the air. Chemistry is in the way sugar dissolves in water .

How does chemistry apply to our bodies? Check out our version of the egg with vinegar experiment . We added a little twist that makes an excellent connection between chemistry and our dental health. We have a 25+ page printable pack to go with it for just $2.95 .

Showing how chemistry is involved in everyday life can take that scary factor out of studying chemistry for students. When it comes time to study chemistry, they will be more excited about jumping in.

Chemistry Experiments For All Ages

I wanted to create a resource for you to be able to find the perfect chemistry experiments for your students no matter their age or interests. This post contains 100 chemistry experiments for students from preschool age through high school. I have divided them into 3 age ranges.

• Preschool and Primary
• Middle and High School

Here are a few disclaimers to my divisions of the experiments.

I realize that all students are different and are ready for different levels of experiments. For instance, some students in the elementary age group might be ready for more advanced experiments found in the Middle and High School section, while others need something more basic like those experiments found in the Preschool and Primary section.

Some may question why I put certain experiments in certain sections. First, I looked at the level of maturity I felt needed to conduct the experiment and if parental help was necessary. Next, I looked at the level of understanding the child would need to learn from the experiment.

Some experiments could teach something at different levels or could be done with parental help or independently and still be successful. When this was the case, I put the experiment in the lowest recommended age level.

With all that being said, these are just guidelines. Feel free to try experiments in sections that differ from your students’ age range if you think they would work.

For chemistry experiments, lesson ideas, and resources, check out my Homeschool Chemistry Pinterest board.

First, download the STEM Resource Guide

We have put together a FREE resource for parents and teachers that includes STEM activities , links to no-cost or low-cost coding, math, engineering, an robotics resources. You’ll find everything from preschool worksheets to high school apprenticeship information. Plus, there are articles to help you get your kids interested in STEM activities or ready for a career in STEM. Our contributors include The STEMKids , a mechanical engineer, and a biologist.

 Preschool Science Experiments

Color Changing Flowers – includes free printable

Make butter! This comes with a free printable lesson that covers a wide range of ages. This is a preschool favorite!

Glow Stick Experiment – this one is especially easy for preschoolers – includes their own little observation sheet and coloring pages

Making Fizzy Moon Rocks (and learning about Moon rocks)

Puffy Paint turned Slime activity (This is also good for older students who are studying polymers.)

Pumpkin Candy Experiment

Dissovling Candy Corn – In this pumpkin and candy-themed printable , your little scientist will enjoying dissolving candy corn (or any candy for that matter) and recording what they observed. Includes three science activities, preschool/kindergarten math resources, and coloring and puzzle pages.

Make Crystal Snowflakes with Borax

Experiment with Yeast and Sugar – Making Peeps Blow Up a Balloon – Includes a free printable pack. Peeps make for interesting chemistry experiments. Whether you use the Peep snowmen or Peep chicks, you can make them blow up a balloon! Includes a free printable pack.

Make Crystals with Borax – This works every time and is exciting to watch throughout a 24-hour period. Obviously, adult supervision is needed when using the Borax, but your littlest scientists can twist their chenille sticks and make their own crazy creations! Plus, stirring the Borax and water will make them feel like real chemists! The activity can be adapted to make snowflake shapes in winter, hearts for Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day. Flowers for spring or summer.

Baking Soda Fizz Experiment

Another Baking Soda Fizz Experiment

Diet Coke and Mentos Explosion

Dripping Slime Experiment

Lava Lamp Experiment

Rainbow Walking Water

Ice Cream in a Bag

Primary Science Experiments

Make a “Stained Glass” window

6 Experiments with Oranges

Make butter! This comes with a free printable lesson that covers a wide range of ages. This is a family favorite!

Glow Stick Experiment – learn about chemiluminescence, chemical reactions, and kinetic energy. 

Dissolving candy experiment with printables

A fun TWIST on the egg with vinegar experiment. This activity helps children see the chemical reactions that go on in our mouth! Free printable.

Do Some Soil Testing – This is important life skills information too!

Color Changing Flowers – learn about capillary action in plants

Make Your Own Snowflakes

Polishing Pennies Experiment

Vitamin C And Apple Experiment

Homemade Butter Experiment

Secret Messages Science Experiment 

120 Kitchen Chemistry & Culinary Science Resources – This is a very comprehensive list. If you want to also get some ideas for teaching your children about chemistry while cooking, this is a good place to look too!

Make Plastic From Milk

Fun Bubbles Experiment

Solubility Experiment

Bending Candy Canes

Experimenting With Viscosity And Sensory Bottles

Sudsy Bubble Experiment

Taffy Slime Chemistry

Dissolving Egg Shell Experiment

Make Ice Grow

Skittles Rainbow Science Experiment

Chromatography Butterflies

Erupting Lemon Volcano Chemistry

Make A Lava Lamp

Rock Candy Experiment

Make Heat Changing Color Sensitive Slime

Elementary School Science Experiments

Glow Stick Experiment – learn about chemiluminescence, chemical reactions, and kinetic energy.  The printable is definitely geared towards elementary and middle school

Easy Science Experiments with Oranges – The Homeschool Scientist

Making Fizzy Moon Craters turned out to be a fun chemistry study and a lesson in realy Moon rocks!

Testing for vitamin C with iodine. We used a pumpkin, cranberries, oj, lemons, and more! It’s a lot of fun!

Oxidation And Reduction Experiment

Make a “Stained Glass” window – a lesson about states of matter and crystallization

Make butter

Making Peeps Candies Blow Up A Balloon – lesson with printable sheets

Add the dental health printable pack we have to go with the egg in vinegar chemistry activity for $2.95

Make A Polymer Ball

Enzyme Experiment

Red Cabbage Litmus Experiment

Harry Potter Potions Experiment

Peeps Science Experiment

Baking Powder vs. Baking Soda Experiment

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Parents of middle and high school students .

What Happens to the pH and temperature of a solvent when you add candy corn??

Testing for Vitamin C with Iodine (We used a pumpkin, cranberries, oj, lemons, and more! It’s a lot of fun!)

Peeps Science: Change In Mass Experiment 

Peeps Science Experiment: Blowing Up a Balloon with Peeps

Chemical Reaction Experiment

Oxygen And Fire Experiment

Make Poinsettia pH Paper

Make Elephant Toothpaste

Make A Rainbow Of Colored Flames

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Make Colored Fire

Check out ChemistryTalk.org. This is a charity non-profit (all of their content is free) whose mission is to make chemistry fun and easy. They have tutorials, experiments, videos, a podcast, and many resources to help your teen understand and enjoy chemistry.

Make A Black Fire Snake

Three Station Gas Lab

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Salt Formation From Chemical Reactions

Check out ChemistryTalk.org. This is a charity non-profit (all of their content is free) whose mission is to make chemistry fun and easy. They have tutorials, experiments, videos, a podcast, and many resources to help your teen understand and enjoy chemistry

Make A Silver Egg

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I hold a master’s degree in child development and early education and am working on a post-baccalaureate in biology. I spent 15 years working for a biotechnology company developing IT systems in DNA testing laboratories across the US. I taught K4 in a private school, homeschooled my children, and have taught on the mission field in southern Asia. For 4 years, I served on our state’s FIRST Lego League tournament Board and served as the Judging Director.  I own thehomeschoolscientist and also write a regular science column for Homeschooling Today Magazine. You’ll also find my writings on the CTCMath blog. Through this site, I have authored over 50 math and science resources.

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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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17 Chemistry Experiments for Kids to Do at Home

By: Author Jacquie Fisher

Posted on Published: April 12, 2021

Categories Educational Activities , Kids Activities & Crafts , Science Experiments

Take a peek at these awesome Chemistry Experiments for Kids and Teens to do at Home !

Have your kids ever mixed baking soda & vinegar to blow up a balloon or make a volcano explode?!!

Maybe they’re fascinated by glow-in-the-dark experiments and LOVE the idea of using test tubes “like a real scientist”.

Raising a scientist doesn’t have to be hard — take a peek at these FUN chemistry activities & experiments that spin, glow & even use fire!

Chemistry Experiments for Kids to Do at Home

We are very BIG on doing science experiments & activities at home !

Whether we’re enjoying some outdoor science experiments or trying an indoor science activity (like these 20 Experiments You can do in a Jar ),  I’ve quickly seen first-hand how science can build confidence, curiosity and the ability to think outside of the box for kids!

While both of our kids attended public school, I’ve learned that there is very limited time devoted to the science curricula at various grade levels and even when they are in specific science classes (such as biology & chemistry), there’s only so much that a teacher can cover during a 42 minute class period.

My kids always come home with questions — and ideas on expanding the activity, frequently asking “Can we try this at home?” or the familiar “I wonder what would happen if …”

So when our affiliate partner Kiwi Co reached out and asked if we’d like to receive one of their *brand new* Chemistry Crates to review for our readers, we jumped at the opportunity!

Tips for Choosing GREAT Science Experiments & Activities to do at Home

I’m very careful about our educational purchases — while I LOVE to encourage interest-led learning at home and have a variety of easy STEM activities on hand, we also have a limited budget. 

So for us, if we make an educational purchase, there are three things I ask first:

1. Will we be able to use the items BEYOND the activity provided?

Basically, does the project include durable items that we can add to our science or learning areas.

2. Does the project include items that are difficult for me to obtain?

This is a biggie when it comes to science experiments — you can’t just walk into Michael’s or Home Depot and say “Can you tell me which aisle has the lithium chloride powder?” 🙂

3. Are there detailed instructions along with a ‘what’s behind the science’ explanation that’s clear for both kids & adults?

Let’s be honest here — we all did science a LONG time ago.  And some of that science has changed (like the periodic table — which now has more elements than when we were in school). 

So like most parents, I want very clear details on how to do the project along with information that’s going to explain why it works and answer all the questions my kids come up with while we’re experimenting.

Not too much to ask for, is it? 😉

This is why we really love the Kiwi Co crate options — whether it’s

• the Tinker Crate (which includes Engineering Projects for kids ages 9 – 16 years ),
• the regular Kiwi Crate (a variety of STEM activities for ages 5 – 8 years ) or
• the NEW Chemistry Crate options reviewed in detail below

— the activities & experiments ALWAYS go above and beyond our expectations!

Multiple science items you can use over & over?

Hard to find items included in the box?

Detailed instructions along with clear, science & STEM explanations?

Check & Check!

Let me give you a peek at the 3 different Chemistry Crate options available for kids & teens!

Chemistry Experiments with Fire

We’re going to begin with the Kiwi Co Fire Lab kit since so many kids & teens as fascinated with flames — and this is a really cool way to capture that interest in a controlled environment 😉

First, let me tell you that we frequently do our science activities outside — it’s just a thing with us.  So many of the photos in this post were taken outdoors — HOWEVER, these experiments can be done inside or outside (I didn’t want to confuse anyone with the pictures).

Here’s an example of the detailed “behind the science” I referred to early in the post. 

In every experiment and lab crate, you’ll find:

• a 40+ page full-color booklet that includes an introduction to the topic,
• science vocabulary and definitions,
• detailed instructions with pictures for each experiment and
• some variations on the experiment to try too!

PLUS, there’s also directions on how to set up and clean up each experiment — which my kids actually enjoy doing with these projects because there’s cute pictures, jokes and graphics involved (who knew that’s what got kids to clean up??!)

The COOLEST experiment we did from the Fire Lab was the Flame Test which is based on an actual test that’s used in real chemistry laboratories!

Kids will see how various chemical substances look when put under a flame — they actually burn in different colors! 

Using the chemicals in the kit, we saw a green flame, red flame and pink flame — even Dad came over to see what the heck we were doing when he heard all the ooh’s and aaah’s (it was like mini-fireworks 🙂

Another thing we really like about the crates is that there are enough materials & chemicals included that you’re able to do the experiments more than once!  A BIG bonus when something is popular with your kids.

And just as important as the science, you can also see in the photos that kids will learn how to:

• set up a science area with tools & materials and
• follow proper safety precautions (including gloves, goggles & having water on hand)

The Fire Lab includes :

• 7 flame & fuel experiments
•  durable science items that you can use again including a mini-burner & burner bottle, pipettes, test tubes and even extra chemicals
• safety equipment such as a mess mat, goggles, gloves and more (safety items are included in every science box!)

ALL the materials you need for the projects are in the box — the only thing you’ll need to bring to the table is water!

Science Experiments with Chemical Changes & Reactions

The Vortex Lab is part engineering, part chemistry with a little bit of electrical circuits thrown in too!

The focus is on chemical changes, kinetics and chemical reactions.  You may have seen our CO2 experiments with baking soda & vinegar — this lab covers what many kids think of as “chemistry” — mixing substances together.

This crate includes:

• 5 experiments (including a bonus at home experiment)
• an engineering project since kids have to build their own mixing machine
• durable lab equipment that you’ll use again including the mixing machines, beaker, 4 test tubes with tops and safety goggles + some cool chemicals too!

Kids will learn about chemical phases, solubility, oxidation and how heat can impact an experiment.

Many you will use again for other experiments & science activities!

My daughter’s favorite part of this lab was the detailed directions that include pictures and step-by-step instructions with great visuals especially for engineering the mixing machine!

She had no problem putting it together and could easily start and stop the experiments without losing her place.  The first thing she said to me when she opened the instructions was “why don’t they use these at school labs?!” 🙂

In addition to science experiments, many of the kits also involved some type of additional STEM (tech, engineering or math) component too.  Here’s an up close look at the electrical circuits that kids need to create when building the mixing machine.

And the directions are very detailed not only in how to put things together but also how to test the equipment along with including trouble-shooting tips in case it doesn’t work the first time.

Yes!  It works!!

Once the mixing machine was up and running, we were able to work though a few of the experiments —

The Motion & Kinetics experiments allow kids to create a Vortex (ie. cyclone or tornado)!

The test tubes are used for the Heat & Kinetics experiments — kids will test how various water temperatures impact solubility and then create a chemical clock too!

You can purchase each of these lab boxes individually or buy all four Chemistry Sets at a HUGE discount (which is awesome!)

Now on to the Glow in the Dark Lab !!

Glow in the Dark Chemistry Experiments for Kids

This is another AMAZING science lab!!

First, you don’t have to take multiple trips to a variety of stores to find a black light and special chemicals — they are ALL included!

And so many kids LOVE the idea of florescence science! 

It’s something we touched on during our Layers of the Ocean science activity with the deepest part of the ocean but the idea is SO much easier to explain when you can do a hands-on science experiment and actually SEE it in action!

Using the black light and chemicals included, kids can make their own glow in the dark liquids!

The Glow in the Dark Lab includes :

• 3 different types of glow in the dark experiments
• an engineering activity that teaches kids how to build a spiral stand
• durable science items that can be used for other activities such as a black light, 2 beakers and an Erlenmeyer flask !
• Plus all the chemicals, safety items, materials and booklet with instructions!

Here’s one of the other experiments where we create & then compare florescence liquid and phosphorescence liquid (yes, there’s more than one type of glow in the dark material 😉

The experiments are super in-depth and really help kids to grasp the scientific vocabulary and concepts covered in the labs!

You can get just one of the lab boxes or grab all four of them (at a discount!) in the full Chemistry Crate!

 And one more awesome thing about Chemistry crates —

They’re delivered via snail mail 🙂

So one afternoon, your kids will find this awesome box on the front porch and know it’s time to burn, mix and create some amazing science!

More Science Experiments & Activities for Kids

  27 Simple Science Experiments to Do in a Jar

Rocks & Minerals: The Vinegar Test

10 Cool Chemistry Experiments

ThoughtCo / Hilary Allison

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• Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
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Chemistry is king when it comes to making science cool . There are many interesting and fun projects to try, but these 10 awesome chemistry experiments can make anyone enjoy science.

Copper and Nitric Acid

When you place a piece of copper in nitric acid, the Cu 2+ ions and nitrate ions coordinate to color the solution green and then brownish-green. If you dilute the solution, water displaces nitrate ions around the copper and the solution changes to blue.

Hydrogen Peroxide with Potassium Iodide

Affectionately known as elephant toothpaste , the chemical reaction between the peroxide and potassium iodide shoots out a column of foam. If you add food coloring, you can customize the "toothpaste" for holiday-colored themes.

Any Alkali Metal in Water

Any of the alkali metals will react vigorously in water . How vigorously? Sodium burns bright yellow. Potassium burns violet. Lithium burns red. Cesium explodes. Experiment by moving down the alkali metals group of the periodic table. 

Thermite Reaction

The thermite reaction essentially shows what would happen if iron rusted instantly, rather than over time. In other words, it's making metal burn. If the conditions are right, just about any metal will burn. However, the reaction usually is performed by reacting iron oxide with aluminum:

Fe 2 O 3  + 2Al → 2Fe + Al 2 O 3  + heat and light

If you want a truly stunning display, try placing the mixture inside a block of dry ice and then lighting the mixture.

Coloring Fire

 SEAN GLADWELL / Getty Images

 When ions are heated in a flame, electrons become excited, then drop to a lower energy state, emitting photons. The energy of the photons is characteristic of the chemical and corresponds to specific flame colors . It's the basis for the flame test in analytical chemistry, plus it's fun to experiment with different chemicals to see what colors they produce in a fire.

Make Polymer Bouncy Balls

Who doesn't enjoy playing with bouncy balls ? The chemical reaction used to make the balls makes a terrific experiment because you can alter the properties of the balls by changing the ratio of the ingredients.

Make a Lichtenberg Figure

A Lichtenberg figure or "electrical tree" is a record of the path taken by electrons during an electrostatic discharge. It's basically frozen lightning. There are several ways you can make an electrical tree.

Experiment with 'Hot Ice'

Hot Ice is a name given to sodium acetate, a chemical you can make by reacting vinegar and baking soda. A solution of sodium acetate can be supercooled​ so that it will crystallize on command. Heat is evolved when the crystals form, so although it resembles water ice, it's hot.

Barking Dog Experiment

The Barking Dog is the name given to a chemiluminescent reaction between the exothermic reaction between nitrous oxide or nitrogen monoxide and carbon disulfide. The reaction proceeds down a tube, emitting blue light and a characteristic "woof" sound.

Another version of the demonstration involves coating the inside of a clear jug with alcohol and igniting the vapor. The  flame front proceeds down the ​bottle , which also barks.

Dehydration of Sugar

When you react sugar with sulfuric acid , the sugar is violently dehydrated. The result is a growing column of carbon black, heat, and the overwhelming odor of burnt caramel.

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• 10 Amazing Chemical Reactions
• Sulfuric Acid and Sugar Demonstration
• How to Make Copper Acetate from Copper
• 10 Cool Chemistry Demonstrations for Educators
• Elephant Toothpaste Chemistry Demonstration
• Easy Chemistry Experiments to Do at Home
• Metal Projects That Help You Explore Chemistry
• Chemistry Experiments With Pennies
• Understanding Endothermic and Exothermic Reactions
• Science Projects Photo Gallery
• How to Make Potassium Nitrate
• How to Do the Color Change Chameleon Chemistry Demonstration
• Kid-Friendly Elephant Toothpaste Demo
• Chemistry Vocabulary Terms You Should Know
• Corrosive Definition in Chemistry

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 37 cool science experiments for kids to do at home.

General Education

Are you looking for cool science experiments for kids at home or for class? We've got you covered! We've compiled a list of 37 of the best science experiments for kids that cover areas of science ranging from outer space to dinosaurs to chemical reactions. By doing these easy science experiments, kids will make their own blubber and see how polar bears stay warm, make a rain cloud in a jar to observe how weather changes, create a potato battery that'll really power a lightbulb, and more.

Below are 37 of the best science projects for kids to try. For each one we include a description of the experiment, which area(s) of science it teaches kids about, how difficult it is (easy/medium/hard), how messy it is (low/medium/high), and the materials you need to do the project. Note that experiments labelled "hard" are definitely still doable; they just require more materials or time than most of these other science experiments for kids.

#1: Insect Hotels

• Teaches Kids About: Zoology
• Difficulty Level: Medium
• Messiness Level: Medium

Insect hotels can be as simple (just a few sticks wrapped in a bundle) or as elaborate as you'd like, and they're a great way for kids to get creative making the hotel and then get rewarded by seeing who has moved into the home they built. After creating a hotel with hiding places for bugs, place it outside (near a garden is often a good spot), wait a few days, then check it to see who has occupied the "rooms." You can also use a bug ID book or app to try and identify the visitors.

• Materials Needed
• Shadow box or other box with multiple compartments
• Hot glue gun with glue
• Sticks, bark, small rocks, dried leaves, bits of yarn/wool, etc.

#2: DIY Lava Lamp

• Teaches Kids About: Chemical reactions
• Difficulty Level: Easy

In this quick and fun science experiment, kids will mix water, oil, food coloring, and antacid tablets to create their own (temporary) lava lamp . Oil and water don't mix easily, and the antacid tablets will cause the oil to form little globules that are dyed by the food coloring. Just add the ingredients together and you'll end up with a homemade lava lamp!

• Vegetable oil
• Food coloring
• Antacid tablets

#3: Magnetic Slime

• Teaches Kids About: Magnets
• Messiness Level: High (The slime is black and will slightly dye your fingers when you play with it, but it washes off easily.)

A step up from silly putty and Play-Doh, magnetic slime is fun to play with but also teaches kids about magnets and how they attract and repel each other. Some of the ingredients you aren't likely to have around the house, but they can all be purchased online. After mixing the ingredients together, you can use the neodymium magnet (regular magnets won't be strong enough) to make the magnetic slime move without touching it!

• Liquid starch
• Adhesive glue
• Iron oxide powder
• Neodymium (rare earth) magnet

#4: Baking Soda Volcanoes

• Teaches Kids About: Chemical reactions, earth science
• Difficulty Level: Easy-medium
• Messiness Level: High

Baking soda volcanoes are one of the classic science projects for kids, and they're also one of the most popular. It's hard to top the excitement of a volcano erupting inside your home. This experiment can also be as simple or in-depth as you like. For the eruption, all you need is baking soda and vinegar (dishwashing detergent adds some extra power to the eruption), but you can make the "volcano" as elaborate and lifelike as you wish.

• Baking soda
• Dishwashing detergent
• Large mason jar or soda bottle
• Playdough or aluminum foil to make the "volcano"
• Additional items to place around the volcano (optional)
• Food coloring (optional)

#5: Tornado in a Jar

• Teaches Kids About: Weather
• Messiness Level: Low

This is one of the quick and easy and science experiments for kids to teach them about weather. It only takes about five minutes and a few materials to set up, but once you have it ready you and your kids can create your own miniature tornado whose vortex you can see and the strength of which you can change depending on how quickly you swirl the jar.

• Glitter (optional)

#6: Colored Celery Experiment

• Teaches Kids About: Plants

This celery science experiment is another classic science experiment that parents and teachers like because it's easy to do and gives kids a great visual understanding of how transpiration works and how plants get water and nutrients. Just place celery stalks in cups of colored water, wait at least a day, and you'll see the celery leaves take on the color of the water. This happens because celery stalks (like other plants) contain small capillaries that they use to transport water and nutrients throughout the plant.

• Celery stalks (can also use white flowers or pale-colored cabbage)

#7: Rain Cloud in a Jar

This experiment teaches kids about weather and lets them learn how clouds form by making their own rain cloud . This is definitely a science project that requires adult supervision since it uses boiling water as one of the ingredients, but once you pour the water into a glass jar, the experiment is fast and easy, and you'll be rewarded with a little cloud forming in the jar due to condensation.

• Glass jar with a lid
• Boiling water
• Aerosol hairspray

#8: Edible Rock Candy

• Teaches Kids About: Crystal formation

It takes about a week for the crystals of this rock candy experiment to form, but once they have you'll be able to eat the results! After creating a sugar solution, you'll fill jars with it and dangle strings in them that'll slowly become covered with the crystals. This experiment involves heating and pouring boiling water, so adult supervision is necessary, once that step is complete, even very young kids will be excited to watch crystals slowly form.

• Large saucepan
• Clothespins
• String or small skewers
• Candy flavoring (optional)

#9: Water Xylophone

• Teaches Kids About: Sound waves

With just some basic materials you can create your own musical instrument to teach kids about sound waves. In this water xylophone experiment , you'll fill glass jars with varying levels of water. Once they're all lined up, kids can hit the sides with wooden sticks and see how the itch differs depending on how much water is in the jar (more water=lower pitch, less water=higher pitch). This is because sound waves travel differently depending on how full the jars are with water.

• Wooden sticks/skewers

#10: Blood Model in a Jar

• Teaches Kids About: Human biology

This blood model experiment is a great way to get kids to visual what their blood looks like and how complicated it really is. Each ingredient represents a different component of blood (plasma, platelets, red blood cells, etc.), so you just add a certain amount of each to the jar, swirl it around a bit, and you have a model of what your blood looks like.

• Empty jar or bottle
• Red cinnamon candies
• Marshmallows or dry white lima beans
• White sprinkles

#11: Potato Battery

• Teaches Kids About: Electricity
• Difficulty Level: Hard

Did you know that a simple potato can produce enough energy to keep a light bulb lit for over a month? You can create a simple potato battery to show kids. There are kits that provide all the necessary materials and how to set it up, but if you don't purchase one of these it can be a bit trickier to gather everything you need and assemble it correctly. Once it's set though, you'll have your own farm grown battery!

• Fresh potato
• Galvanized nail
• Copper coin

#12: Homemade Pulley

• Teaches Kids About: Simple machines

This science activity requires some materials you may not already have, but once you've gotten them, the homemade pulley takes only a few minutes to set up, and you can leave the pulley up for your kids to play with all year round. This pulley is best set up outside, but can also be done indoors.

• Clothesline
• 2 clothesline pulleys

#13: Light Refraction

• Teaches Kids About: Light

This light refraction experiment takes only a few minutes to set up and uses basic materials, but it's a great way to show kids how light travels. You'll draw two arrows on a sticky note, stick it to the wall, then fill a clear water bottle with water. As you move the water bottle in front of the arrows, the arrows will appear to change the direction they're pointing. This is because of the refraction that occurs when light passes through materials like water and plastic.

• Sticky note
• Transparent water bottle

#14: Nature Journaling

• Teaches Kids About: Ecology, scientific observation

A nature journal is a great way to encourage kids to be creative and really pay attention to what's going on around them. All you need is a blank journal (you can buy one or make your own) along with something to write with. Then just go outside and encourage your children to write or draw what they notice. This could include descriptions of animals they see, tracings of leaves, a drawing of a beautiful flower, etc. Encourage your kids to ask questions about what they observe (Why do birds need to build nests? Why is this flower so brightly colored?) and explain to them that scientists collect research by doing exactly what they're doing now.

• Blank journal or notebook
• Pens/pencils/crayons/markers
• Tape or glue for adding items to the journal

#15: DIY Solar Oven

• Teaches Kids About: Solar energy

This homemade solar oven definitely requires some adult help to set up, but after it's ready you'll have your own mini oven that uses energy from the sun to make s'mores or melt cheese on pizza. While the food is cooking, you can explain to kids how the oven uses the sun's rays to heat the food.

• Aluminum foil
• Knife or box cutter
• Permanent marker
• Plastic cling wrap
• Black construction paper

#16: Animal Blubber Simulation

• Teaches Kids About: Ecology, zoology

If your kids are curious about how animals like polar bears and seals stay warm in polar climates, you can go beyond just explaining it to them; you can actually have them make some of their own blubber and test it out. After you've filled up a large bowl with ice water and let it sit for a few minutes to get really cold, have your kids dip a bare hand in and see how many seconds they can last before their hand gets too cold. Next, coat one of their fingers in shortening and repeat the experiment. Your child will notice that, with the shortening acting like a protective layer of blubber, they don't feel the cold water nearly as much.

• Bowl of ice water

#17: Static Electricity Butterfly

This experiment is a great way for young kids to learn about static electricity, and it's more fun and visual than just having them rub balloons against their heads. First you'll create a butterfly, using thick paper (such as cardstock) for the body and tissue paper for the wings. Then, blow up the balloon, have the kids rub it against their head for a few seconds, then move the balloon to just above the butterfly's wings. The wings will move towards the balloon due to static electricity, and it'll look like the butterfly is flying.

• Tissue paper
• Thick paper
• Glue stick/glue

#18: Edible Double Helix

• Teaches Kids About: Genetics

If your kids are learning about genetics, you can do this edible double helix craft to show them how DNA is formed, what its different parts are, and what it looks like. The licorice will form the sides or backbone of the DNA and each color of marshmallow will represent one of the four chemical bases. Kids will be able to see that only certain chemical bases pair with each other.

• 2 pieces of licorice
• 12 toothpicks
• Small marshmallows in 4 colors (9 of each color)
• 5 paperclips

#19: Leak-Proof Bag

• Teaches Kids About: Molecules, plastics

This is an easy experiment that'll appeal to kids of a variety of ages. Just take a zip-lock bag, fill it about ⅔ of the way with water, and close the top. Next, poke a few sharp objects (like bamboo skewers or sharp pencils) through one end and out the other. At this point you may want to dangle the bag above your child's head, but no need to worry about spills because the bag won't leak? Why not? It's because the plastic used to make zip-lock bags is made of polymers, or long chains of molecules that'll quickly join back together when they're forced apart.

• Zip-lock bags
• Objects with sharp ends (pencils, bamboo skewers, etc.)

#20: How Do Leaves Breathe?

• Teaches Kids About: Plant science

It takes a few hours to see the results of this leaf experiment , but it couldn't be easier to set up, and kids will love to see a leaf actually "breathing." Just get a large-ish leaf, place it in a bowl (glass works best so you can see everything) filled with water, place a small rock on the leaf to weigh it down, and leave it somewhere sunny. Come back in a few hours and you'll see little bubbles in the water created when the leaf releases the oxygen it created during photosynthesis.

• Large bowl (preferably glass)
• Magnifying glass (optional)

#21: Popsicle Stick Catapults

Kids will love shooting pom poms out of these homemade popsicle stick catapults . After assembling the catapults out of popsicle sticks, rubber bands, and plastic spoons, they're ready to launch pom poms or other lightweight objects. To teach kids about simple machines, you can ask them about how they think the catapults work, what they should do to make the pom poms go a farther/shorter distance, and how the catapult could be made more powerful.

• Popsicle sticks
• Rubber bands
• Plastic spoons
• Paint (optional)

#22: Elephant Toothpaste

You won't want to do this experiment near anything that's difficult to clean (outside may be best), but kids will love seeing this " elephant toothpaste " crazily overflowing the bottle and oozing everywhere. Pour the hydrogen peroxide, food coloring, and dishwashing soap into the bottle, and in the cup mix the yeast packet with some warm water for about 30 seconds. Then, add the yeast mixture to the bottle, stand back, and watch the solution become a massive foamy mixture that pours out of the bottle! The "toothpaste" is formed when the yeast removed the oxygen bubbles from the hydrogen peroxide which created foam. This is an exothermic reaction, and it creates heat as well as foam (you can have kids notice that the bottle became warm as the reaction occurred).

• Clean 16-oz soda bottle
• 6% solution of hydrogen peroxide
• 1 packet of dry yeast
• Dishwashing soap

#23: How Do Penguins Stay Dry?

Penguins, and many other birds, have special oil-producing glands that coat their feathers with a protective layer that causes water to slide right off them, keeping them warm and dry. You can demonstrate this to kids with this penguin craft by having them color a picture of a penguin with crayons, then spraying the picture with water. The wax from the crayons will have created a protective layer like the oil actual birds coat themselves with, and the paper won't absorb the water.

• Penguin image (included in link)
• Spray bottle
• Blue food coloring (optional)

#24: Rock Weathering Experiment

• Teaches Kids About: Geology

This mechanical weathering experiment teaches kids why and how rocks break down or erode. Take two pieces of clay, form them into balls, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Then, leave one out while placing the other in the freezer overnight. The next day, unwrap and compare them. You can repeat freezing the one piece of clay every night for several days to see how much more cracked and weathered it gets than the piece of clay that wasn't frozen. It may even begin to crumble. This weathering also happens to rocks when they are subjected to extreme temperatures, and it's one of the causes of erosion.

• Plastic wrap

#25: Saltwater Density

• Teaches Kids About: Water density

For this saltwater density experiment , you'll fill four clear glasses with water, then add salt to one glass, sugar to one glass, and baking soda to one glass, leaving one glass with just water. Then, float small plastic pieces or grapes in each of the glasses and observe whether they float or not. Saltwater is denser than freshwater, which means some objects may float in saltwater that would sink in freshwater. You can use this experiment to teach kids about the ocean and other bodies of saltwater, such as the Dead Sea, which is so salty people can easily float on top of it.

• Four clear glasses
• Lightweight plastic objects or small grapes

#26: Starburst Rock Cycle

With just a package of Starbursts and a few other materials, you can create models of each of the three rock types: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Sedimentary "rocks" will be created by pressing thin layers of Starbursts together, metamorphic by heating and pressing Starbursts, and igneous by applying high levels of heat to the Starbursts. Kids will learn how different types of rocks are forms and how the three rock types look different from each other.

• Toaster oven

#27: Inertia Wagon Experiment

• Teaches Kids About: Inertia

This simple experiment teaches kids about inertia (as well as the importance of seatbelts!). Take a small wagon, fill it with a tall stack of books, then have one of your children pull it around then stop abruptly. They won't be able to suddenly stop the wagon without the stack of books falling. You can have the kids predict which direction they think the books will fall and explain that this happens because of inertia, or Newton's first law.

• Stack of books

#28: Dinosaur Tracks

• Teaches Kids About: Paleontology

How are some dinosaur tracks still visible millions of years later? By mixing together several ingredients, you'll get a claylike mixture you can press your hands/feet or dinosaur models into to make dinosaur track imprints . The mixture will harden and the imprints will remain, showing kids how dinosaur (and early human) tracks can stay in rock for such a long period of time.

• Used coffee grounds
• Wooden spoon
• Rolling pin

#29: Sidewalk Constellations

• Teaches Kids About: Astronomy

If you do this sidewalk constellation craft , you'll be able to see the Big Dipper and Orion's Belt in the daylight. On the sidewalk, have kids draw the lines of constellations (using constellation diagrams for guidance) and place stones where the stars are. You can then look at astronomy charts to see where the constellations they drew will be in the sky.

• Sidewalk chalk
• Small stones
• Diagrams of constellations

#30: Lung Model

By building a lung model , you can teach kids about respiration and how their lungs work. After cutting off the bottom of a plastic bottle, you'll stretch a balloon around the opened end and insert another balloon through the mouth of the bottle. You'll then push a straw through the neck of the bottle and secure it with a rubber band and play dough. By blowing into the straw, the balloons will inflate then deflate, similar to how our lungs work.

• Plastic bottle
• Rubber band

#31: Homemade Dinosaur Bones

By mixing just flour, salt, and water, you'll create a basic salt dough that'll harden when baked. You can use this dough to make homemade dinosaur bones and teach kids about paleontology. You can use books or diagrams to learn how different dinosaur bones were shaped, and you can even bury the bones in a sandpit or something similar and then excavate them the way real paleontologists do.

• Images of dinosaur bones

#32: Clay and Toothpick Molecules

There are many variations on homemade molecule science crafts . This one uses clay and toothpicks, although gumdrops or even small pieces of fruit like grapes can be used in place of clay. Roll the clay into balls and use molecule diagrams to attach the clay to toothpicks in the shape of the molecules. Kids can make numerous types of molecules and learn how atoms bond together to form molecules.

• Clay or gumdrops (in four colors)
• Diagrams of molecules

#33: Articulated Hand Model

By creating an articulated hand model , you can teach kids about bones, joints, and how our hands are able to move in many ways and accomplish so many different tasks. After creating a hand out of thin foam, kids will cut straws to represent the different bones in the hand and glue them to the fingers of the hand models. You'll then thread yarn (which represents tendons) through the straws, stabilize the model with a chopstick or other small stick, and end up with a hand model that moves and bends the way actual human hands do.

• Straws (paper work best)
• Twine or yarn

#34: Solar Energy Experiment

• Teaches Kids About: Solar energy, light rays

This solar energy science experiment will teach kids about solar energy and how different colors absorb different amounts of energy. In a sunny spot outside, place six colored pieces of paper next to each other, and place an ice cube in the middle of each paper. Then, observe how quickly each of the ice cubes melt. The ice cube on the black piece of paper will melt fastest since black absorbs the most light (all the light ray colors), while the ice cube on the white paper will melt slowest since white absorbs the least light (it instead reflects light). You can then explain why certain colors look the way they do. (Colors besides black and white absorb all light except for the one ray color they reflect; this is the color they appear to us.)

• 6 squares of differently colored paper/cardstock (must include black paper and white paper)

#35: How to Make Lightning

• Teaches Kids About: Electricity, weather

You don't need a storm to see lightning; you can actually create your own lightning at home . For younger kids this experiment requires adult help and supervision. You'll stick a thumbtack through the bottom of an aluminum tray, then stick the pencil eraser to the pushpin. You'll then rub the piece of wool over the aluminum tray, and then set the tray on the Styrofoam, where it'll create a small spark/tiny bolt of lightning!

• Pencil with eraser
• Aluminum tray or pie tin
• Styrofoam tray

#36: Tie-Dyed Milk

• Teaches Kids About: Surface tension

For this magic milk experiment , partly fill a shallow dish with milk, then add a one drop of each food coloring color to different parts of the milk. The food coloring will mostly stay where you placed it. Next, carefully add one drop of dish soap to the middle of the milk. It'll cause the food coloring to stream through the milk and away from the dish soap. This is because the dish soap breaks up the surface tension of the milk by dissolving the milk's fat molecules.

• Shallow dish
• Milk (high-fat works best)

#37: How Do Stalactites Form?

Have you ever gone into a cave and seen huge stalactites hanging from the top of the cave? Stalactites are formed by dripping water. The water is filled with particles which slowly accumulate and harden over the years, forming stalactites. You can recreate that process with this stalactite experiment . By mixing a baking soda solution, dipping a piece of wool yarn in the jar and running it to another jar, you'll be able to observe baking soda particles forming and hardening along the yarn, similar to how stalactites grow.

• Safety pins
• 2 glass jars

Summary: Cool Science Experiments for Kids

Any one of these simple science experiments for kids can get children learning and excited about science. You can choose a science experiment based on your child's specific interest or what they're currently learning about, or you can do an experiment on an entirely new topic to expand their learning and teach them about a new area of science. From easy science experiments for kids to the more challenging ones, these will all help kids have fun and learn more about science.

What's Next?

Are you also interested in pipe cleaner crafts for kids? We have a guide to some of the best pipe cleaner crafts to try!

Looking for multiple different slime recipes? We tell you how to make slimes without borax and without glue as well as how to craft the ultimate super slime .

Want to learn more about clouds? Learn how to identify every cloud in the sky with our guide to the 10 types of clouds .

Want to know the fastest and easiest ways to convert between Fahrenheit and Celsius? We've got you covered! Check out our guide to the best ways to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit (or vice versa) .

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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17 No-Prep Science Experiments for the Classroom or Home

Categories Science Experiments

Science experiments are a lot of fun to do with kids, but it’s always frustrating to realize that many of them call for special ingredients.

It can be a hassle to get these supplies at any time, but particualrly right now!

Rather than skip science altogether, why not try these no-prep science experiments that require basic supplies that you probably already have at home!

If you like these science experiments you’ll also want to try these no-prep STEM activities for kids!

What is a no-prep science experiment?

A no-prep science experiment is an experiment that can be done with very little to no advanced set-up or planning.

These are science experiments you can do if you were to say, “you know what, I want to do a science demonstration today!”

You’ll have everything you need for these most likely at home or in your science classroom already, so there is no need to make a special trip to the store or prep things days in advance.

Most of these activities are science demonstrations, rather than true experiments, because they illustrate scientific concepts rather than explore a hypothesis.

Nevertheless, kids can learn a lot even without much advanced prep!

How can I used these low-prep science experiments in the classroom?

If you’re doing these experiments in the classroom, I suggest breaking the kids into groups for 4-5 for exploratory play.

Pick something that needs less oversight from a teacher, and that is a bit less messy than some science experiments.

Allow the kids to explore the experiment and process after you explain the concept, then have them record their data on a science experiment worksheet!

How can I do these no-prep experiments at home?

If you’re doing science experiments at home , I suggest doing these experiments in the kitchen, or even outside.

Kids can make things messy fast, so doing the experimetns in a mess-safe environment will keep your sanity.

Find out a bit about the science behind the activity before starting so that you can share the experiment highlights as your kids work through the experiments.

What do I need for no-prep science activities?

You’ll find these supplies helpful for completing these low-prep experiments. These are affiliate links.

17 Exciting and Fun No-Prep Science Experiments for Kids

Now that you’re all set to do no-prep science experiments, here are some of our favorites!

Try one today, or plan a whole week of science for a fun science camp theme!

Did you know that cold water is denser than warm water? See it in action in the temperature water density experiment.

All you need is an egg and a candle to do the silver egg science experiment!

Learm how trees make oxygen using a jar, water, and a leaf!

All you need to make a fizzing rainbow is baking soda, vinegar, and food coloring or watercolors!

Try the non- newtonian fluid experiment and learn about Non-Newtonian fluids.

Walking water is a funny name for this surface tension and capilary action science experiment. All you need is food coloring, paper towels, and water!

Kids have to try the baking soda and vinegar reaction at least once a year. All you need is… baking soda and vinegar. But dish soap helps!

Use whatever you have on hand to make a liquid density tower !

If you have whole milk, you can do this milk surface tension experiment . If you don’t have milk, just use pepper and water!

Pencils and plastic baggies are all you need to do the leak-proof bag experiment.

Make your very own tornado in a jar with some water and a jar.

If you have ice and a jar, you can create a real cloud in a jar !

With whipped cream or shaving cream and food colloring you can make a raincloud in a jar and learn about the water cycle.

You don’t need anything for this dissecting a flower activity, other than a flower!

With some pennies, salt and vinegar, spend the afternoon turning pennies green and learning abotu chemical reactions!

Have a balloon and some tape? You can do the laminar flow experiment.

All you need for the pencil refraction experiment is a pencil and a clear jar or glass.

Where to Buy Supplies for Science Experiments

We like to get our supplies at the grocery story, and we find a lot of cool stuff on Amazon, too! Below is a list of some of our favorite science experiment kits and STEM resources for kids.

My Favorite STEM Products for the Preschool Classroom

These STEM products are perfect for the preschool STEM classroom!

Homer Technology App for Kids 4-6

Mel Science Classroom STEM Kits

Classroom Balance Buckets

Primary Sorting Classroom Bundle

Transparent Color Cubes

Clixo Rainbow Classroom Pack

Pet Home STEM Challenge

Stacking Mirror Blocks

Magnification Blocks

Gravity Physics Tubes

Specimen Viewers Classroom Set

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Homemade Chemistry – Household Chemical Reaction Experiments for Kids

Krystal DeVille

Updated on: July 30, 2023

You don’t always need a laboratory to carry out science experiments.

In fact, how about educating your kids with some household chemical reaction experiments? Here’s a list of some interesting hands-on activities that talk about different chemical reactions.

Table of Contents

9 Simple Chemistry Experiments for Your Kids to Try at Home

1. bubble power.

What You’ll Need:

• A plastic bottle
• 150 ml of hot water

The Process:

Take the plastic bottle and add three tsp of dry yeast and two tsp of sugar into it.

Now, start pouring hot water into the bottle slowly.

Cover the bottle with a balloon and wait for around half an hour.

What did you see? The balloon expands, and the liquid starts to foam. As the yeast mixes with sugar and releases carbon dioxide gas, you’ll see many bubbles rising to the surface, causing foamy liquid and balloon inflation. This is called the fermentation process.

 2. Soot Experiment

Light the candle and hold the knife in the center of the flame for a few seconds.

Did you see the blade turning black? Keeping the blade in the flame leads to incomplete combustion of paraffin that is present in the candle. This produces carbon particles that eventually cover the blade.

 3. Dry Ice Smoke Experiment

• Dry ice (solid carbon dioxide)
• A large container or bowl
• Preparation : First, make sure to handle dry ice with care. It’s extremely cold (-78.5 °C or -109.3 °F), so use gloves or tongs to handle it. Adult supervision is a must here.
• Add Warm Water : Fill a large container or bowl with warm water.
• Add Dry Ice : Using gloves or tongs, place a piece of dry ice into the warm water.
• Observe the Fog : You’ll see a thick fog start to form. This is actually a cloud of tiny water droplets condensing from the water vapor, as the dry ice sublimates directly from a solid to a gas (carbon dioxide).
• Optional Enhancement : You can add a few drops of dish soap to create bubbles filled with fog, or add food coloring for a visual effect.

Safety Considerations:

• Always handle dry ice with care, using gloves or tongs.
• Adult supervision is needed, especially when handling the dry ice.
• Dry ice should never be enclosed in a sealed container, as it can build up pressure and explode.
• Make sure the area is well-ventilated, as the carbon dioxide gas could displace oxygen in a confined space.

4. Vinegar Power

Take a glass and place an eggshell into it. Fill half of the glass with vinegar.

Wait for 12 hours and observe the change.

As vinegar is acidic, it breaks down various substances (like calcium carbonate) present in the eggshell. This causes the eggshell to dissolve in the vinegar.

I go more in-depth about this and have a dedicated article step-by-step here, How to Make An Eggshell Disappear Science Experiment .

5. Color Experiment

• Copper coin (a penny will work fine even though they are mostly zinc)
• Ammonia solution

The Process :

For this chemical reaction experiment, take a dark-coated copper coin. Pour ammonia solution over it. You’ll see the solution turning blue. When copper comes into contact with ammonia under the influence of oxygen, it forms a complex compound that results in a color change.

6. Fire Experiment

• Potassium permanganate crystals

Use potassium permanganate crystals to make a small hill-like structure.

Create a hollow in it and pour glycerin (add only a little quantity).

In case there’s no fire, add one or a maximum of two drops of water.

You’ll see the mixture catching fire as there’s a chemical reaction between potassium permanganate and glycerin.

7. Skittles Experiment

• Skittles (or any other such coated sweets)
• A plate or container (preferably white)

Take a white container or plate and arrange your skillets (or any other coated sweets) over it. Try to arrange them with alternate colors.

Now, pour the warm water into the container slowly. Push the skittles back into their place if they happen to move due to water.

Observe what happens next.

Skittles are coated with sugar and food coloring. So, as soon as you pour water over them, the sugar and color will start to dissolve and spread along through the water, giving you a colorful effect.

8. Invisible Ink Experiment

• Cotton swab

Take a glass, squeeze some lemon juice and mix it with a few drops of water.

Now, dip a cotton swab into the mixture and write something on the paper with it.

Allow the paper to dry. Once dry, hold it over the burning candle. Did you see the text? Is it magic?

The answer is – as lemon juice contains acid, it darkens at high temperatures. So, when you bring the paper closer to the burning candle, you see the text appearing.

9. Mint Candy Fountain

• Mint flavored candies
• A 2-liter bottle of soft drink
• A tube or a piece of paper

Caution: Carry out this household chemical reaction in an outdoor area, preferably your backyard.

Open the soft drink bottle and place it on the flat surface, so it does not tip over. It’s recommended to place the bottle in an area that is not surrounded by anything.

Now, take the paper, roll it up in the cylinder-shape. Make sure that the width is enough for the candies to slide through.

Seal the bottom of the roll with your hand and add the candies to the paper tube.

Hold the paper tube above the soft drink bottle and slide your finger in a way that the candies drop straight in. Drop all the candies in the bottle at the same time and move away from the bottle as fast as possible.

The carbon dioxide gas in the bottle does not form bubbles until you open the bottle. But the gas will escape with force while spilling some soft drink out if you open the bottle immediately after shaking it. So, adding anything to the soft drink will promote bubble formation while forcing it to escape.

Now, as you drop the mint candies in the drink, it offers a lot of surface area for the bubbles to form in huge numbers. So, as it begins to dissolve, it pushes the entire content, resulting in an incredible soft drink blast.

My kids really enjoyed trying other things to see if they can get a bigger reaction, sand surprising works great.

I put together a big list of Messy STEM Science Experiments for Kids.

 Final Thoughts

Aren’t these household chemical reaction experiments worth a try? They’ll not only keep your kids engaged but will also help them learn some amazing chemistry lessons in the comfort of your home. If you’re looking for some interesting chemistry experiment kit for your kid, you may want to check out – Colorful Chemistry .

For many of these, all you need is a variety of household cleaning products you probably already have stocked at home. When doing any experiment, make sure the proper precautions are also taken to avoid any possible toxic fumes or combustion reactions.

Have you tried any of these experiments before? What was the result? Did your kids enjoy it? Do share your experience with us in the comments.

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Latest information about COVID-19

At-home chemistry kits allow students to create lab experiences remotely

Stanford chemistry team delivers hands-on learning to remote students.

When it became clear last spring that in-person classes and labs would no longer be possible due to COVID-19, Jennifer Schwartz Poehlmann, senior lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, started brainstorming. She wanted to explore how to maintain the integrity and rigorous hands-on learning that were part of the introductory undergraduate chemistry sequence she had been teaching in the School of Humanities and Sciences for the last 10 years.

“I believe students have to have hands-on chemistry if they're going to understand it,” Poehlmann said. “When we went into remote mode, students didn't have that opportunity to interact with, observe, and learn from these phenomena firsthand.” 

For many students, this sequence is the gateway to future chemistry classes, whether they become chemistry majors, engineers, pre-medical students, or pursue other majors.

In an effort to bring some kind of hands-on experience to summer-quarter remote learners, Poehlmann and lab manager Amanda Nelson spent much of March scouting out available lab kits on the market. But they determined that the pre-packaged kits were not only unaffordable for college students,   they did not match their full learning objectives and would have required   the chemistry team to change the curriculum.

Laboratory courses regularly include fees to cover materials, and Poehlmann and Nelson hoped to provide a lab kit without substantially increasing costs for students.

“Stanford already has a preeminent laboratory design that has been developed over the last decade by our professors and lecturers as an integral part of the course to make some of the most abstract chemical concepts tangible,” Nelson said. “In short, third-party, hands-on products didn’t match our curriculum and were more expensive.”

So they decided to create their own kits. 

Designing the Kits 

Creating and mailing a kit that would be affordable and appropriate for at-home experiments turned out to be a huge undertaking. First, Nelson had to identify and locate lab supplies, including plastic beakers and a test tube set that wouldn’t break in the mail. 

“Then, there was the Mt. Everest of challenges: safety,” said Nelson. Working closely with Stanford’s office of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S), Poehlmann and Nelson redesigned the experiments to be educationally engaging but included materials that were safe and stable enough to accommodate a variety of home environments. 

Because students might have younger people in their households, the team also planned for the chemicals to be in small quantities, packaged in child-proof containers. They also needed to ensure that the chemicals used in the household “labs” could be safely disposed.

Finally, their proposal was approved. “In the final weeks of spring quarter, we prepared, packed, and shipped 25 kits in a matter of days,” Nelson said. 

A Successful Experiment 

Students enrolled in the General Chemistry 31A–B sequence this summer have been able to do experiments at home using non-hazardous salts such as calcium chloride and baking soda, Milk of Magnesia, and cabbage powder from their kits. The cabbage powder is a colorful addition, as it changes color based on the reaction occurring. 

“It's made from boiled cabbage, and you can concentrate it,” Poehlmann explained. “So anytime a reaction occurs—whether it’s slightly acidic or basic, or even if it's neutral, the cabbage powder indicator changes color. It gives a beautiful visual that helps to illuminate the chemistry that students are observing.”

The entire class, including the laboratory sections, takes place over Zoom, so students are running their experiments at the same time as their peers, with their instructor and teaching assistants virtually present. With a small group participating this summer, the class is taught mid-day Pacific Time, which has worked for the participants.

The teaching assistants, who have been cleared to be in laboratories on campus, demonstrate the more complex or hazardous parts of experiments that might require additional safety precautions such as a laboratory hood for ventilation or special waste disposal. 

For instance, to explore periodic trends in metals reactivity, the home kit includes small pieces of calcium and magnesium. But the lab, as originally designed, includes testing lithium, sodium, and potassium as well.  These are so highly reactive in pure metal form that they can catch fire when they interact with water, therefore those materials could not be sent to students. Instead students conduct the first two experiments with calcium and magnesium at home and then observe the TA’s remotely as they carry out the reactions with the more reactive metals in the lab.  

The students also have their own scale, stir plates, pH and conductivity meters, graduated cylinders for making precise measurements, and balloons, which are used in several different experiments, including one that demonstrates the three-dimensional structures of molecules. 

The hard work of bringing the kits to fruition has been rewarded by the feedback of students. “It's been nice to have a more practical, hands-on experience with chemistry in our own homes,” said rising sophomore Amaris Lewis, who is at home in New Orleans, LA. “As I'm doing things like preparing or heating solutions, it helps to be doing these step-by-step processes myself, and understanding why experiments are done in such a specific way really helps concepts from lecture come to life.”   Perhaps the biggest advantage of having undertaken the huge effort of sending the kits to students this summer is the leg up it gives the teaching group in preparing for fall quarter. 

During the school year, students in both General Chemistry 31A–B and those in 31M, Chemical Principles: From Molecules to Solids , will benefit from the home kits. And sections will be taught at various times throughout the day to help accommodate students who are in other time zones.

“The course enrollment in the fall is generally 300–400 students,” Poehlmann explained. “One reason we piloted it this summer was with the knowledge that we would almost certainly be teaching students remotely in the fall. A lot of them are going to be freshmen, and we wanted to make sure they had a really great first experience as they're coming into chemistry and the university in general.”

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Awesome and Easy DIY Science Experiments to Do at Home

January 18, 2020 By C. Hall Leave a Comment

For many, the idea of science is lost on them. They may not think it’s possible to do anything fun at home or may worry that their kids aren’t going to be impressed. However, there are many science experiments to do at home with your kids.

Although we usually focus on just chemistry experiments , sometimes in specific experiments to run with your kids you can find many things, but electronics, physics, and chemistry are three of the most popular types available. Also, if you are an adult and a science enthusiasts, there are also pro experiment kits available for you .

The good news is that you can find cool experiments to do at home with household items. That means you don’t have to spend a lot of money and can raid the kitchen for the things you need.

Diet Soda and Mentos Volcano

This one’s a classic.

If you’re looking for cool science experiments, then this is the right one for you. Just remember that it can be quite messy, so you should do it outside or in the bathroom where it is easier to clean. However, it is non-toxic, so it’s safe for kids.

What You Need for this Science Experiment

• Test tube/sheet of paper
• Diet soda in a 2-liter bottle
• Roll of Mentos candy
• Mop (to clean up)

The first step is to gather all of your supplies. It is possible to substitute other candy for the Mentos, but they do work better. Regular soda can also be used, but the eruption is likely to be much stickier.

Stack the candies. To do that, you should use a sheet of paper or test tube to form a single column of candy. Put the index card over the sheet of paper at the end so that the candy doesn’t fall out before you’re ready for it.

Open the bottle of diet soda. Remember that the eruption is going to happen fast. Make sure things are set up and that you can back away after releasing the candy.

Once you’re ready, put the roll of candies over the bottle and remove the index card to release them. Let the eruption begin!

Why It Works

Whether it’s for a school project or you’re looking for science experiments for high school kids, this project is excellent. It works because of a physical process instead of a chemical reaction.

Soda has a lot of carbon dioxide dissolved, giving it the fizz. When Mentos are added, the bumps on the candy’s surface allow more carbon dioxide to stick (as we covered in one of our 100 chemistry facts ).

More and more of these molecules are going to accumulate, creating bubbles. The candy is heavy and sinks, so it interacts with the carbon dioxide down to the bottom while the bubbles expand as they start to rise. The accumulation of bubbles while the candy starts dissolving, results in the formation of foam.

With all that pressure, a geyser erupts, and the foam is funnelled through the narrow opening.

Building a Hovercraft Vehicle

If you want amazing science experiments with everyday materials, then consider making a hovercraft. This focuses on physics because the device glides over a flat surface without falling from gravity. It works by moving cushions of air, which are created by fans at the back of the vehicle. There is a skirt beneath it, which traps air and causes it to rise. An engine and fan propel it forward. Instead of a fan here, it uses a balloon.

You’re going to need:

• A CD (Compact Disc)
• Pop-top cap from a dish soap or water bottle
• Hot glue gun

Glue the bottle cap over the CD’s center hole and let it dry. All the edges of the CD’s inner hole should be sealed. Next, push the pop-top closed. Now, blow up the balloon, holding it to prevent air from escaping. Stretch the balloon’s mouth over the cap without losing any air. Adjust your balloon so that it stands centered and straight.

Set your newly made hovercraft on a table and open up your pop-top. Nudge the device a little and let it go.

Building an Electric Motor

Most people think of motors in cars, but they’re in your home. For example, if you have a washing machine, refrigerator, or use a fan, they all have motors. You can make a simple motor for an electronics science experiment, and you only need a couple of magnets ( neodymium magnets , usually employed for magic tricks, are pretty cheap) and a few other things.

You’re going to need a few things that you might have to purchase. They include:

• Magnet wire (about 50 inches)
• Neodymium magnets (3)
• Jumbo paper clips 1.5-2 inches long
• Dowel, ½ inch in diameter (or the cap from a felt-tip marker)
• Cardboard (2×3 inches)
• C-cell battery (2)
• Masking or electrical tap

How to Build Your Own Electric Motor at Home

At one end of your magnet wire, measure 1.6 inches and start winding it about 10.5 times around your cylinder. Cut it with scissors, leaving 1.6 inches free. You must do this evenly and neatly. If it’s not, the weight isn’t going to be distributed evenly, and the experiment isn’t going to work correctly.

Slide your magnet loops off of the cylinder. The coil could look square or circular at this point. Make sure the loops stay bunched together. Thread the free ends of the wire through the coil loops at the 9 and 3 o’clock positions. Make sure the wire ends are straight. This is the axle on which the electromagnet is going to spin.

If necessary, remove the insulating enamel coating from the ends of your wire to create an electrical contact between the support and axle. You can use the sandpaper to do this. Don’t press too hard because the wire might break. Make sure that on the right axle, you only strip half of the coating off the top. On the left one, remove all of the coating.

Bend your two paperclips to create the structure shown below:

Tape one paperclip to the positive end of your C battery. Make sure the bigger loop goes around the bump and secure it with tape. Secure your other paperclip to the negative end in the same way. Tape this one in place.

Open a book and balance the battery in the folds, so the axle supports face upward. Put three small neodymium magnets on the battery on top of each other in the middle. Insert the axle ends into the loop of the support. Let the motor run!

A video is worth a thousand words, so here you go:

It can be quite fun to try out science experiments for kids at school. We provided three different options, including electronics, chemistry, and physics.

Some are easier than others, but they can all be used to teach your children about science while they have fun.

If you want to move one step further, gear up and get one of the best science kits for teens out there. Stay tuned for reviews of kits for kids and adults. For sure this is a great way to engage in educational activities: always be on the look for fun DIY easy science experiments to do at home!

And finally, by all means, do reach out in the comments if you have any ideas or suggestions !

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10 Exciting and Educational At-Home Science Experiments

Use the scientific method, create instant ice, dissolve an egg shell, grow a carbon sugar snake, make your own chalk out of this breakfast ingredient, turn milk into plastic, become a professional coin cleaner, make moon craters, create salt crystals, grow your own rock candy, argoprep can help make science experiments fun.

Science experiments at home is one of the easiest ways to demonstrate complex topics to kids. Plus, they’re fun and engaging for kids of all ages.

We have compiled some of the best at-home science experiments that you can use to enrich your at-home learning experience!

All of these experiments are fun to do, but before beginning, remember to go through the scientific method to ensure that the experiment is educational (as well as fun!).

Have your child create a hypothesis and make predictions before beginning. Then, have them extend their learning, but testing their hypothesis further with additional questions after they complete the experiment.

Happy learning!

10 Science Experiments to Try Today

Did you know that purified water (or water without any particles in it) takes longer in the freezer to become solid? That’s part of what makes this science experiment at home so much fun to do.

Beginning with a bottle of purified water put the unopened bottle into the freezer for a little less than three hours. When you pull the bottle out of the freezer, you’ll notice it’s well-chilled but not solid.

Next, place ice onto a plate. Using your ultra-chilled purified water, slowly pour the water directly onto the ice cubes.

What happens next will appear to be true magic as the ice begins to grow right before your eyes!

Science Experiment Explained

So is the ice growing, or is Elsa hiding somewhere in the background magically creating it? Neither! Since purified water is void of all impurities, it won’t freeze as quickly. However, when added to the ice cube, the ice serves as the nuclei for the water. This allows the water to freeze instantly!

For this experiment, you will need an egg, vinegar, and a jar.

Fill the jar with vinegar and gently add the raw egg. Make sure there is enough vinegar to cover the egg completely.

It will take two days for the entire experiment to work. After about 12 hours, you will notice a white foam at the top of your jar– that’s the eggshell!

After two days, gently remove the egg from the vinegar and rinse.

Now you have an egg without a shell! You can safely bound the egg (within 1-2 inches of its landing spot).

For added excitement, place the naked egg into a cup of water and see how much more it will grow! Since the egg is predominantly water, there is more room for it to grow.

Vinegar is an acid, which allows for it to dissolve the calcium carbonate shell. Since the egg is protected by two fragile membranes, the egg will still be contained once the shell dissolves.

Hey parents! This experiment requires lighter fluid and, you guessed it, fire. It’s probably a great experiment to do outside with close supervision. 

In a bowl, combine 4 teaspoons with 1 teaspoon of baking soda. In a disposable tin, fill with sand and make a small mound in the center.

Pour lighter fluid on the mound and make sure the sand is well saturated.

Spoon the sugar and baking soda mixture onto the mound.

Carefully light the sand near the sugar mixture. As the mixture mixes with the fire, the snake will begin to grow! It’s a slow process, so be patient! It can take up to 20 minutes for the full effect to take place.

Numerous reactions are happening in this experiment to work. First, the sugar burning mixed with the oxygen creates carbon dioxide gas and water vapor. This reaction causes the sugar and baking soda to continue to push upwards to the fresh air.

This solid carbon now gives the snake some shape and also gives the snake its black color.

Lastly, the baking soda also decomposes in the heat, producing solid sodium carbonate and carbon dioxide gas, and water vapor. Altogether, these three reactions produce both the solid components of the snake (carbon and sodium carbonate) and hot gases (CO2 and water vapor) that expand and inflate the snake up and out of the sand bowl.”

Finally, the sand serves as the heating plate for the entire reaction. It allows the heat to be evenly distributed,, allowing for the steady burn that allows your snake to grow.

Have a lot of egg shells laying around? This activity is fun to create and even more fun to play with. Starting with 10 clean and dry eggshells, crush the shells into a fine powder (this could easily be done with a food processor).

Add two teaspoons of flour to your eggshells and slowly add hot water until you create a still paste.

Add food coloring to the paste and form into a shape (with either ice cube trays or by rolling the paste into a paper towel).

Let the stick of paste dry completely and you will have a fully functional stick of chalk!

For this experiment, you will need a measuring cup, 1 cup of milk, a mug and microwavable container, paper towels, and a spoon.

Heat your milk in a microwavable container (about 5 minutes on 50% power). The milk should be hot chocolate temperature.

Once warm enough, add 4 tablespoons of vinegar into the mug. Begin stirring until small curbs begin to form.

Layer paper towers until thick on a surface that can get wet (like a plate).

Spoon the curds from the milk and place onto the paper towels, pressing the towels on top of the curds to get the extra moisture out.

Being kneading and molding the curds into any shape, you have successfully created Casein Plastic. The plastic will dry and fully harden within 48 hours.

All plastics are built with repeated molecules called polymers. The protein in milk, called Casein, undergoes a reaction when added to acid. This reaction changes the Casein and reorganizes the molecules into the curdles and eventually creates the polymer Casein Plastic.

Gather dirty copper coins (at least 6) and add one to mixtures of the following solutions, 1/4c each:

• Apple Juice
• Vinegar and Salt

Properly label each mixture and allow the coin to sit in the mixture for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, remove the coins and wash off.

Observe the coins: which one is cleanest? Which one is the shiniest? Was the result what you expected?

When copper interacts with oxygen, it starts to tarnish (or get dirty looking). To clean the copper, you must put it into acid to break down the oxidation. The vinegar is effective as breaking down the oxidation but so is the ketchup (since there is acid in vinegar and tomatoes). The clear winner will be the vinegar and salt combination, since the mixture creates hydrochloric acid– a more acidic vinegar!

In a small cake pan, add about an inch of flour. Then lightly add sprinkles, next sift cocoa power over the top of the flour and sprinkles, covering the surface completely.

Using a rock, create craters in the surface by dropping the rock from various heights above the pan.

To extend the experiment try dropping differently sized rocks and from different heights to observe how the craters size changes.

The three layers of the flour, sprinkles, and cocoa create the layers of the moon’s surface. This activity will help illustrate how space rocks that impact the moon affect the surface through the creation of craters.

For this science experiment, keep any turkey or chicken bones from aside after a meal. Make sure the bones are clean of any meat, and test the bone to ensure that it doesn’t bend easily.

Next, add the bone to a jar filled with vinegar and cover it. Leave the bone in the vinegar for three days. Remove the bone, rinse, and try bending it — does it bend more easily now?

You have now created a rubber bone!

As we already have covered, vinegar is an acidic liquid that dissolves calcium. Since bones are predominantly made of calcium, when it’s submerged in vinegar, the calcium dissolves.

Now you know why you’re always told to drink milk to get strong bones! The more calcium you consume, the stronger you will be!

Collect small rocks and wash them. Then dissolve 1/4 cup salt into 1/2 cup of boiling water. Stir the salt until it is nearly dissolved, then pour over the rocks (in a small pan) and let dry.

This experiment, much like the rock candy experiment, uses the over saturation of salt in water to create the crystals. As the water dissolves, the salt will be left behind on the rocks, creating a unique experiment.

This experiment is a great way to teach kids about the crystallization process. To get started, all you need is water, sugar, a clothespin, a pot, and some wooden skewers (you can also grab some food dye to make the crystals even more beautiful).

Bring two cups of water to a boil in the pot on the stove. Next, stir in 4 cups of sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves (if you want to add flavor, now is the time to do it! I recommend vanilla or root beer extract).

Allow the mixture to cool for 15 – 20 minutes. While you’re waiting, saturate your skewers in water and roll them in granulated sugar. Set the stick aside to allow for the sugar to dry completely to the sticks.

Once the sugar solution has cooled completely, pour the solution into jars and insert the sugar-covered skewers into the jars. You must make sure that the stick is not touching the jar.

Secure the top of the stick with the clothespin and cover the glass’s top with a paper towel.

Set the jars aside in a cool and quiet place where they will grow for the next two weeks. The crystals can break if there is too many loud noises or movement. When you are happy with your crystals (in about 10-14 days), remove the stick from the mixture to dry and enjoy!

Science Experiments Explained

The magic of rock candy happens in the cooling of the solution. Since it’s supersaturated with sugar (remember the ratio is 4:1), as the temperature decreases, the sugar comes out of the solution and forms the crystals.

Science is one of the most fun subjects in school and it’s easy to see why. With experiments like these, kids can often forget they’re even learning! Are you looking for more ways to include science in your child’s life? ArgoPrep has created award-winning science workbooks to enrich science education at any age. Filled with fun and interactive practice, your child will see improvements in their understanding in as little as 20 minutes per day!

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Science at Home

• EXPERIMENTS

3M is committed to helping students and teachers learn STEM in fun and creative ways.

3M’s Science at Home makes learning fun with engaging and educational DIY science experiments for children ages 6-12.

These simple, at-home experiments conducted by 3M scientists use common household items and are designed to reinforce core scientific principles. School systems, educators, parents, and caregivers are encouraged to use this educational content in classrooms and at home.

Science Experiments for Kids at Home

Watch more science experiments designed, and tailored, for kids at home using commonly available items from around your place of living. Each experiment includes information on how to include them in your curriculum.

Do different light sources produce different light waves? In this activity, you will make a spectroscope, which is a device used for looking at the different colors that make up light.

Why does it only rain sometimes, and not whenever there are clouds in the sky? This experiment will model what is happening when clouds finally start to rain.

In this experiment, you will explore light refractions in water and the way light is made up of various colors using a jar or glass, water and a light source.

Follow along with 3M’s Chief Science Advocate, Jayshree Seth, as she teaches students how chemistry can help put some air where it’s most needed!

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Scientist Spotlight:

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3M has a long history of supporting STEM and quality education programming.  We have specific goals to advance equitable outcomes in STEM and Skilled Trades for underrepresented and under-resourced students.

Learn more about 3M’s educational giving and partner organizations here .  

Science at Home is made possible through collaboration with Discovery Education, the Bakken Museum and Scientific American.

Further reading:

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Search begins for 3M and Discovery Education’s 2023 America’s Top Young Scientist

Women and girls in science: More diversity in STEM leads to better solutions

Young Scientist Challenge alumni win science grants

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Mind-Blowing Science Experiments to Do with Your Kids at Home

T eaching kids science at home can be incredibly useful for their educational development. It can also be a really great way to give kids a break from their screen time while allowing them to discover something new.

So, today, we are going to be discussing various science experiments that can be easily conducted at home.

Additionally, we will provide you with the details on all the necessary tools and resources to ensure a safe and enjoyable learning experience.

So let's get to it!

Photo Credit: Polina Tankilevich from corelens via Canva.com

*Post contains affiliate links. Full disclosure can be viewed here .

STEM Science Experiments

All of the following STEM experiments can be done using the STEM science kits found here .

Racecar with a Spring Engine

MEL Science Kits offers an exciting opportunity for kids to build their own racecar powered by a spring engine. This experiment not only teaches fundamental concepts of physics but also encourages creativity and problem-solving skills.

Hydraulic Lift

Another fascinating experiment with MEL Science Kits involves the construction of a hydraulic lift . By understanding the principles of hydraulics, children can explore the concepts of pressure and force while constructing this hands-on project. You can check out the hydraulic lift we built HERE !

Infinity Portal

The MEL Science project called the “Infinity Porta l, ” allows children to explore the wonderful world of mirror reflections. By creating their own infinite reflection tunnel, kids can discover and learn about the physical laws behind this fascinating phenomenon.

MEL Science offers a kit that enables children to assemble their own music box while exploring the principles of sound waves. This experiment is a perfect combination of science and creativity, fostering a deeper understanding of acoustics. Pro Tip: You can also use this experiment as part of a music lesson.

Earthquake-Resistant Buildings

Through the Earthquakes MEL Science Kit , kids can learn how to construct buildings capable of withstanding the force of an earthquake. This experiment provides a hands-on approach to comprehend engineering concepts and helps develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Space Science Experiments

All of the following Space science experiments can be done using the Space science kits found here .

Rocket Launch

Encourage your child’s curiosity about space with the Rocket MEL Science Kit , which allows kids to launch their very own space rocket. This experiment introduces the basics of rocket propulsion and sparks an interest in aerospace exploration.

Water Recovery Systems

The Water Recovery Systems MEL Science Kit provides an opportunity for kids to learn about the challenges of water purification in space. By conducting various experiments, children can explore innovative techniques for cleaning water in a challenging environment.

Model of Jupiter

With the Gas Giants Science Kit from MEL Science, children can build a realistic model of Jupiter. This experiment not only teaches kids about the largest planet in our solar system but also introduces them to concepts like planetary composition and scale modeling.

Physics Science Experiments

All of the following Physics science experiments can be done using the Physics science kits found here .

Luminescence

Kids can make their own liquid nightlight with the Luminescence MEL Science Kit . This kit provides all the necessary materials and instructions for creating a unique and glowing nightlight using special luminescent substances.

Electric Motor

Another exciting experiment is building an electric motor with the “Electric Motor” set by MEL Science. Kids can learn about electromagnetic principles and construct a working motor using the provided components.

Glasses Vision Physics

For those interested in vision physics, the “Glasses” Vision Physics Set by MEL Science enables kids to build their own 3D goggles. This experiment explores how our eyes perceive depth and helps children understand the science behind 3D visuals.

Magnetic Levitation

This Magnetic Levitation Set offers an incredible experiment where kids can make a rod levitate using magnetic forces. This hands-on activity introduces concepts of magnetism and levitation in a captivating way.

Create Your Own Mic and Speaker

With the “Mic and Speaker” experiment , children can learn about sound waves and create their own speaker and microphone. This experiment allows kids to understand the basics of sound and how it can be amplified using simple components.

Chemistry Science Experiments

All of the following Chemistry science experiments can be done using the Chemistry science kits found here .

Set Hydrogen Foam on Fire

Using the But Will it Burn MEL Science Kit , kids can set hydrogen foam on fire and learn about combustion. This experiment demonstrates the flammability of hydrogen and the principles of a chemical reaction.

Set Fire Using Pure Oxygen

For older kids, this Oxygen Science Kit provides an experiment where they can set a fire using pure oxygen. This activity focuses on oxidizers and reducers and emphasizes the importance of oxygen in combustion.

Build Your Own Battery

The Zinc-carbon Battery Kit allows kids to build their own working battery. Through this experiment, children gain an understanding of the chemical reactions that occur within a battery and how electrical energy is produced.

Medicine Science Experiments

All of the following Medical science experiments can be done using the Medicine science kits found here .

Filling a Tooth

The Dentistry: Caries MEL Science Kit provides an opportunity for kids to practice removing the damaged part of a tooth using a dental burr and make dental fillings. This experiment introduces concepts of dentistry and allows children to learn about dental procedures in a safe and educational manner.

Make Your Own ECG

With the ECG MEL Science Kit, kids can learn how to take their own electrocardiogram (ECG). This experiment familiarizes children with the medical device used to measure heart activity and helps them understand the basics of the human cardiovascular system.

Practice Basic Surgical Skills

The Surgery MEL Science Kit offers an exciting opportunity for kids to learn basic surgical skills. They can make incisions in artificial skin and practice applying stitches, providing a hands-on understanding of surgical procedures and promoting dexterity.

Where to Find The Tools and Lesson Plans for These Experiments

All the necessary tools and lesson plans for these experiments can be found in the MEL Science Kits. To start your MEL Science subscription and gain access to a wide range of exciting experiments, visit their website and follow the instructions to subscribe.

Materials Chemistry Frontiers

Local protons enhance photocatalytic co2 reduction by porphyrinic zirconium-organic frameworks.

The immobilization of molecular catalysts based on porphyrin fragments within metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) offers a promising approach for achieving sustainable and stable photocatalytic activity. In this study, we present the synthesis of a phenolic hydroxy-modified iron-porphyrinic zirconium-based MOF, Zr6O4(OH)4(FeTCBPP-OH)3, named MOF-OH (FeTCBPP-OH = iron 5,10,15,20-tetrakis[4-(4'-carboxyphenyl)-2,6-dihydroxylphenyl]porphyrin), through post-synthetic modification of a precursor MOF called MOF-OCH3 (Zr6O4(OH)4(FeTCBPP-OCH3)3, FeTCBPP-OCH3 = iron 5,10,15,20-tetrakis[4-(4'-carboxyphenyl)-2,6-dimethoxyphenyl]porphyrin). Initially, we attempted the direct assembly of Zr4+ centers and FeTCBPP-OH ligands; however, this approach was unsuccessful to obtain MOF-OH. This perhaps resulted from the high number of hydroxyl groups on the polyphenolic porphyrinic fragments, which exhibited a stronger binding affinity towards zirconium centers. Consequently, we achieved MOF-OH by selectively modifying the partial methoxy positions of the FeTCBPP-OCH3 fragments in MOF-OCH3 through demethylation. To evaluate the photocatalytic performance of MOF-OH, we conducted CO2 reduction experiments without the use of additional photosensitizers. Remarkably, after 72 hours, the yield of CO reached a high value of 26.8 mmol g−1. Notably, the CO production of MOF-OH was significantly higher than that of MOF-OCH3, possibly due to the presence of phenolic hydroxyl substituents, which led to higher local proton concentrations. Furthermore, MOF-OH exhibited excellent stability, as demonstrated by the consistent CO production observed during four consecutive runs of CO2 reduction. To gain insights into the photocatalytic CO2 reduction process, we conducted a comprehensive series of characterizations and density functional theory calculations, which provided a deeper understanding of the mechanism involved.

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X. Zhao, C. Zhu, J. Qin, H. Rao, D. Du, M. Zhang, P. She, L. Li and Z. Su, Mater. Chem. Front. , 2024, Accepted Manuscript , DOI: 10.1039/D4QM00187G

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