How To: Make a Crazy Foam Explosion Science Experiment

Check out this video to see our Fantastic Foamy Fountain in action. The experiment uses Hydrogen peroxide and dry yeast. Hydrogen peroxide is similar to water but has an extra oxygen atom. This makes it more dangerous, and only adults should handle the hydrogen peroxide.

When you add the yeast, it acts as a catalyst (a helper) to release the extra oxygen gas, and the soap helps to create all the foam. Try it out yourself!

The second experiment with the giant foam eruption at the end used a more powerful hydrogen peroxide and a different chemical for a catalyst. The reaction happens very fast and gives off quite a bit of heat. It's pure foam fun! I mean pure science.

You Will Need:

• A clean 16-ounce plastic soda bottle
• 1/2 cup 20-volume hydrogen peroxide liquid (20-volume is a 6% solution; ask an adult to get this from a beauty supply store or hair salon)
• 1 Tablespoon (one packet) dry yeast
• 3 Tablespoons warm water
• Liquid dishwashing soap
• Food coloring
• Small cup
• Safety goggles

NOTE: As you can see from the picture, the foam will overflow from the bottle, so be sure to do this experiment on a washable surface or place the bottle on a tray.

What to Do:

1. Hydrogen peroxide can irritate the skin and eyes, so put on those safety goggles and ask an adult to pour the hydrogen peroxide into the bottle carefully.
2. Add eight drops of your favorite food coloring into the bottle.
3. Add about one tablespoon of liquid dish soap into the bottle and swish it around a bit to mix it.
4. In a separate small cup, combine the warm water and the yeast and mix for about 30 seconds.
5. Now the adventure starts! Pour the yeast water mixture into the bottle (a funnel helps here) and watch the foaminess begin!