Science Experiments with Bi-Carb
A spoon full of magic makes a Brisbane Kid happy. This is a magic trick your Brisbane Kids will love. Magic spoons keep their secret hidden until the potion explodes in a mass of bubbles and fizzing finally revealing a secret colour.
You Will Need:
- Bicarbonate Soda
- Hair Conditioner
- White Vinegar
- Food Colouring in various colours
- Spoons
- Glasses
How to Make Magic Spoons:
Step 1
In a bowl, mix ½ a cup of bicarbonate soda and ¼ a cup of hair conditioner. Mix well. If the mixture is too wet, add more bicarb. This should hold together, but not be sloppy (texture of damp sand).
Step 2
Place spoons (we did 5) on a plate and add a drop of food colouring into the centre of each spoon. Use a medicine dropper to get a small drop of colour.
Step 3
Carefully place the bicarbonate/conditioner mixture over the colour so it is hidden by the bicarb.
Step 4
Fill glasses to half full with white vinegar – you will need the same number of glasses as spoons (ie. we had 5).
Step 5
Now the magic can happen. Let your Brisbane Kids place a spoon into a glass and stir the vinegar. As the magic bubbles and fizzes the “water” will change colour. How fun – a spoon full of magic that can change water to coloured and create a wonderful bubbling brew!
Party Play
This activity can be used as a party game. Let each child choose a magic spoon but only one spoon has the “magic colour”. Colour one of the spoons differently to the others. For instance each spoon is blue and one is green. Whoever has the green spoon wins!
WARNING: Do not leave children unattended whilst experimenting with bi-carb and vinegar. Incorrect usage of vinegar can be harmful. Seek medical attention immediately if vinegar enters the eyes or is consumed.
We’ve got lots of great Craft and Fun Ideas for your Brisbane Kids. For more science with bicarb fun, check out our Fantastic Fizzing Potions.
Adora L Hostetler
I tried this for a Harry Potter party for the sorting. I did red for Gryffindor, yellow for Hufflepuff, green for Slytherin, and blue for Ravenclaw. The guests loved it! Thank you!