This week, I found myself going down a very specific rabbit hole—one in which I watched video after video of people doing the Elephant Toothpaste science experiment. If you’re not familiar, the experiment features the creation of a large, foamy volcano made from water, dish soap, yeast and hydrogen peroxide—commonly referred to as “Elephant Toothpaste” because of its outsized toothpaste-y look. There is something weirdly satisfying about watching the fast-moving, oozing foam, so I’m here to suggest you create some yourself.
But first, let’s watch a few of those videos. We’ll start with a normal, you-can-try-this-at-home version:
So that looks fun and safe and doable! What’s even more fun—but not safe or doable at home, because you are not a former NASA engineer like this guy—is filling up a pool with the stuff:
And finally, this video is longer, but the story behind the project and the final product are worth the watch:
Anyway, back to the small and safe (but still satisfactory) version you can do at home. Here’s what you need:
An empty, clean plastic bottle, such as a 16-oz. soda bottle1 packet (1 tablespoon) of dry yeast1/2 cup 20-volume hydrogen peroxide liquid (20-volume is a 6% solution that is stronger than what you find in most pharmacies but can usually be found in beauty supply stores. Science Bob says you can use the more common 3% hydrogen peroxide found in pharmacies, but the reaction will be a bit smaller.)3 tablespoons warm waterLiquid dish-washing soapLiquid food coloring (optional)A large container, such as a tub or tray, to catch the foam (unless you like a foamy mess)A small cupA funnelSafety gogglesNow you’re ready to go! Here are instructions from Science Bob:
Use a funnel to carefully pour 1/2 cup (118 ml) of the hydrogen peroxide liquid into the bottle.Add about 10 drops of your favorite food coloring into the bottle.Add about 1 tablespoon (15ml) of liquid dish soap into the bottle and swish the bottle around a bit to mix it.In a separate small cup, combine the warm water and the yeast together and mix for about 30 seconds. It should be about the consistency of melted ice cream—add a bit more warm water if needed.Now the adventure starts! Use the funnel to pour the yeast-water mixture into the bottle and watch the foaminess begin!G/O Media may get a commission
You’re going to be very tempted to touch that foam. If you’re using the 3% hydrogen peroxide, go ahead and feel away. If you’re using the 6% version, though, Science Bob recommends avoiding contact with it, because it can irritate your skin or eyes.
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