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
Similar Posts:
- Top 100 Fine Motor Skills Activities for Toddlers and Preschoolers
- 37 Water Science Experiments: Fun & Easy
- Top 58 Creative Art Activities for Kids and Preschoolers
Leave a Comment Cancel reply
Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment.
- Science, Tech, Math ›
- Chemistry ›
- Activities for Kids ›
Easy Chemistry Experiments to Do at Home
These 12 projects use materials you probably already have
- Activities for Kids
- Chemical Laws
- Periodic Table
- Projects & Experiments
- Scientific Method
- Biochemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Medical Chemistry
- Chemistry In Everyday Life
- Famous Chemists
- Abbreviations & Acronyms
- Weather & Climate
- Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
- B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College
Looking for fun, educational activities to do at home? This list of easy chemistry experiments and science activities will allow you to perform experiments with materials you likely already have in your kitchen cupboards .
You don't need esoteric chemicals and a lab to have a good time with chemistry. Your average fourth-grader can make slime , and it doesn't get any less fun when you're older, so this is a good at-home experiment for kids and adults alike.
Borax Snowflake
Anne Helmenstine
Making a sparkly borax snowflake is a crystal-growing project that's safe and easy enough for kids. You can make shapes other than snowflakes, and you can color the crystals. If you use these as Christmas decorations and store them, the borax is a natural insecticide and will help keep your long-term storage area pest-free. If they develop a white precipitant, lightly rinse them but don't dissolve too much crystal.
Mentos and Diet Soda Fountain
This is a backyard activity best accompanied by a garden hose . The Mentos fountain is more spectacular than a baking soda volcano . If you make the volcano and find the eruption to be disappointing, substitute these ingredients.
Penny Chemistry
You can clean pennies, coat them with verdigris, and plate them with copper. This project demonstrates several chemical processes , yet the materials are easy to find and the science is safe enough for kids.
Invisible Ink
Invisible inks either react with another chemical to become visible or else weaken the structure of the paper so the message appears if you hold it over a heat source. But we're not talking about fire here; the heat of a normal light bulb is all that's required to darken the lettering. This baking soda recipe is nice because if you don't want to use a light bulb to reveal the message, you can just swab the paper with grape juice instead.
Colored Fire
Fire is fun. Colored fire is even better. These additives are safe. They won't, in general, produce smoke that is any better or worse for you than normal wood smoke. Depending on what you add, the ashes will have a different elemental composition from a normal wood fire, but if you're burning trash or printed material, you have a similar result. This is suitable for a home fire or campfire, plus most chemicals are found around the house (even of non-chemists).
Seven-Layer Density Column
Make a density column with many liquid layers . Heavier liquids sink to the bottom, while lighter (less dense) liquids float on top. This is an easy, fun, colorful science project that illustrates the concepts of density and miscibility.
Homemade Ice Cream in a Plastic Bag
Science experiments can taste good! Whether you're learning about freezing point depression or not, the ice cream is a delicious result either way. This cooking chemistry project potentially uses no dishes, so cleanup can be very easy.
Hot Ice (Sodium Acetate)
Got vinegar and baking soda ? If so, you can make " hot ice ," or sodium acetate , and then cause it to instantly crystallize from a liquid into "ice." The reaction generates heat, so the ice is hot. It happens so quickly that you can form crystal towers as you pour the liquid into a dish.
Burning Money
The " burning money trick " is a magic trick using chemistry . You can set a bill on fire, yet it won't burn. Are you brave enough to try it? All you need is a real bill.
Coffee Filter Chromatography
Exploring separation chemistry with coffee filter chromatography is a snap. A coffee filter works well, though if you don't drink coffee you can substitute a paper towel. You can also devise a project comparing the separation you get using different brands of paper towels. Leaves from outdoors can provide pigments. Frozen spinach is another good choice.
Baking Soda and Vinegar Foam Fight
The foam fight is a natural extension of the baking soda volcano . This easy chemistry experiment is a lot of fun and a little messy, but quick enough to clean up as long as you don't add food coloring to the foam.
- Easy Science Projects
- How to Make Flaming Gel
- Kitchen Science Experiments for Kids
- How to Make Elephant Toothpaste
- Safe Science Experiments
- Homemade Silly Putty Recipes
- Science Projects Photo Gallery
- Fried Green Egg Food Science Project
- Baggie Chemistry Experiments
- Top Chemistry Projects for Bored Kids
- Mad Scientist Party Theme
- Second Grade Science Fair Projects
- Chemistry Experiments With Pennies
- Science Experiments and Activities for Preschoolers
- Baking Soda Science Projects
- How to Make Glow in the Dark Slime
- Grades 6-12
- School Leaders
Check Out Our Latest Giveaways! Win a Classroom Garden, Field Trips, and More
Every product is independently selected by our team of teacher-reviewers and editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.
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 .
Plus, get all the latest teaching news and ideas when you sign up for our free newsletters.
Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. 5335 Gate Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32256
Get Your ALL ACCESS Shop Pass here →
65 Amazing Chemistry Experiments for Kids
Chemistry is so much fun, and we have tons of cool chemistry experiments to share with you. Like our awesome physics experiments , we decided we needed to put together a list of fun chemistry projects kids can do at home or in the classroom. Check out these examples of easy chemical reactions below!
65 Chemistry Experiments You Want To Try
We have divided our chemistry experiments below into chemical reactions, acids and bases, chromatography, solutions, polymers, and crystals. Some chemistry experiments also explore concepts in physics .
Chemical Reactions
A chemical reaction is a process where two or more substances react together to form a new chemical substance. This might look like a gas formed, cooking or baking, milk souring, etc.
Sometimes a physical change occurs, like our popcorn experiment or melting crayons, rather than a chemical change . However, these experiments below are all great examples of chemical change, where a new substance is formed.
CHECK OUT: Examples Of Physical Change and Chemical Change Examples
Can chemical reactions happen safely at home or in the classroom? Absolutely! This is one of the most fun parts of chemistry for kids, and you will find lots of ideas below for safe chemical reactions you can do with your junior scientists.
Acids And Bases
Acids and bases are important for many chemical processes in everyday life. An acid has hydrogen ions and can donate protons. Acids taste sour and have a pH from 0 to 7. Vinegar and citric acid are examples of acids.
Bases are molecules that can accept hydrogen ions. They have a pH higher than seven and can taste bitter. Sodium bicarbonate or baking soda and ammonia are examples of bases. Learn more about the pH scale.
Vinegar and baking soda experiments are classic acid-base reactions. You’ll also find experiments that use an acid such as vinegar or lemon juice. We have so many fun variations that your kids will love to try! Check out these acid-base chemistry experiments below.
Chromatography
Chromatography is a technique that involves the separation of a mixture into its parts so you can see each one individually.
A solution is a mixture of 2 or more solutes dissolved in a solvent up to its solubility limit. It most often refers to liquids, but solutions, gases, and solids are also possible. A solution will have its components evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Chemistry experiments involving solutions are great for kids. Gather liquids you commonly find in your kitchen, oil, water, detergent, etc., and explore what dissolves.
A polymer is a huge molecule made of many smaller molecules layered together in repeating patterns called monomers. Putty, slime, and cornstarch are all examples of polymers. Learn more about the science of slime polymers .
Making slime is great for at-home chemistry! It’s also a classic middle school science demonstration for the classroom. Here are a few of our favorite slime recipes to get you started.
non-Newtonian Fluids
Learn how to make oobleck ! Explore polymers with a simple cornstarch and water mixture.
A crystal is a solid material with a highly ordered internal structure of atoms, molecules, or ions held together by chemical bonds. Grow crystals and observe them by mixing a super-saturated solution and leaving it for several days to let the crystals form.
Simple to grow and taste-safe, a sugar crystals experiment is more accessible for younger kids, but you can also try growing borax crystals for older kids.
Check out our fun theme variations of growing crystals too!
Chemistry For Preschoolers
Let’s keep it basic for our younger or junior scientists! Chemistry is all about how different materials are put together and what they are made up of, like atoms and molecules.
What can you do with your youngest scientists? While working 1-1 or in a very small group is ideal, you can explore chemistry in a few fun ways that don’t require a lengthy setup or a lot of directions to follow. Do NOT overcomplicate the ideas!
Take, for example, our very first baking soda science experiment (age 3). So simple to set up, but so lovely to watch the amazement on my son’s face.
Check out these fun ways for preschoolers to explore science…
- Make liquid mixtures! Mix water and oil in a jar, let it rest, and observe what happens.
- Make solid mixtures! Mix two solid items and observe the changes!
- Mix a solid and a liquid! Add ice to a drink and observe the changes!
- Make a reaction! Set up a tray with baking soda in small cups and colored vinegar in small cups with pipettes. Mix and observe!
- Make oobleck ! Mix cornstarch and water for a weird and messy science activity.
- Explore characteristics of things! Use new science words to describe how different materials feel. Explore squishy, hard, rough, smooth, wet, etc…
Much of preschool science is about you sharing new experiences with them that are relatable and simple. A sk questions, share new words, and offer verbal prompts to get them to communicate with you about what they see!
Chemistry Science Fair Projects
Science projects are excellent tools for older kids to demonstrate their knowledge of science. They can also be used in various environments, including classrooms, homeschools, and groups.
Kids can take everything they have learned about using the scientific method , stating a hypothesis, choosing variables , and analyzing and presenting data.
Want to turn one of these fun chemistry experiments into a science project? Then you will want to check out these helpful resources.
- Easy Science Fair Projects
- Science Project Tips From A Teacher
- Science Fair Board Ideas
More Helpful Science Resources
Here are a few resources that will help you introduce science more effectively to your kiddos or students and feel confident yourself when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.
- Best Science Practices (as it relates to the scientific method)
- Science Vocabulary
- 8 Science Books for Kids
- All About Scientists
- Free Science Worksheets
- Science Supplies List
- Science Tools for Kids
- Scientific Method for Kids
- Citizen Science Guide
- Join us in the Club
Printable Science Projects For Kids
If you’re looking to grab all of our printable science projects in one convenient place plus exclusive worksheets and bonuses like a STEAM Project pack, our Science Project Pack is what you need! Over 300+ Pages!
- 90+ classic science activities with journal pages, supply lists, set up and process, and science information. NEW! Activity-specific observation pages!
- Best science practices posters and our original science method process folders for extra alternatives!
- Be a Collector activities pack introduces kids to the world of making collections through the eyes of a scientist. What will they collect first?
- Know the Words Science vocabulary pack includes flashcards, crosswords, and word searches that illuminate keywords in the experiments!
- My science journal writing prompts explore what it means to be a scientist!!
- Bonus STEAM Project Pack: Art meets science with doable projects!
- Bonus Quick Grab Packs for Biology, Earth Science, Chemistry, and Physics
17 Comments
- Pingback: Homemade Sand Slime Recipe for Kids Summer Science Activity
- Pingback: Magic Milk Classic Science Experiment Kids Science
- Pingback: Children to Leaders Foundation | 18 Great Online Resources to Get Your Child into Science
- Pingback: Balloon Baking Soda Vinegar Science Experiment for Kids
- Pingback: Erupting Apple Science and Apple Volcano Chemistry Activity for Kids
- Pingback: Simple Physics Activities Science Experiments STEM Ideas for Kids
- Pingback: How to Get Slime Out of Clothes (2 Methods to Try!)
- Pingback: How to Incorporate Chemistry at Home
- Pingback: Winter Magic Milk Science Project for Snowman Science Activities
- Pingback: Coffee Filter Flowers Science and STEAM Activity for Kids
- Pingback: Crystal Flowers Spring Science Experiment and Craft for Mother Day
- Pingback: Erupting Lemon Volcano Chemistry for Kids Science Activities
- Pingback: Grow Sugar Crystals for Edible Rock Candy Chemistry Experiment
- Pingback: 187Great Online Resources to Get Your Child into Science
- Pingback: The BEST Very Simple Science Experiments for Kids to Try Anywhere
- Pingback: Simple Ways To Take STEAM Outdoors This Summer
- Pingback: Geometric Bubble STEM Activity for Kids Summer Science
Comments are closed.
Subscribe to receive a free 5-Day STEM Challenge Guide
~ projects to try now ~.
13 Awesome Chemical Reaction Experiments You Can Do At Home
Categories Activities & Ideas
Kids love to play mad scientist. And what better way to get kids excited about chemistry than with a few awesome chemical reaction experiments you can do at home?
Chemistry is an important branch of science that plays a big role in our everyday lives – so it’s definitely a subject children should learn about.
Luckily, chemistry is like performing magic – it’s fun to learn and do!
So, with that said, here are some awesome chemical experiments that can be done at home, all just as fun as they are educational.
Just remember: For health and safety, just make sure to supervise your child while doing the following experiments. If you’re a teacher, conduct these experiments in class or have the child’s parents supervise them at home.
1. Mentos & Diet Soda Chemical Volcano Eruption
Mixing mentos and diet soda is a classic experiment that produces a large chemical reaction that’s ideal for showing kids what chemistry is capable of. It’s safe and non-toxic, but the experiment can get messy, so it’s best to do it outdoors!
For this chemical reaction experiment, all you’ll need are a two-liter bottle of diet soda, a test tube or sheet of paper, an index card, and Mentos candies. You can use normal soda instead of diet soda, as well as M&Ms or Skittles instead of Mentos.
2. Baking Soda And Vinegar Balloon Experiment
If you have never seen a self-inflating balloon, this awesome chemical reaction experiment is sure to amaze the kids. The best thing is that baking soda and vinegar are common household items, so this experiment is easy enough to do at home.
All it involves is mixing baking soda and vinegar in a bottle and placing a balloon on the open end. The chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar will release carbon dioxide gas that will inflate the balloon.
3. Green Flames
Copper sulfate is another item that can be easily found in most homes, but what’s special about it is that it can turn flames green. This chemical reaction experiment is best done in a fireplace or with a small controlled flame.
This is another awesome experiment that’s simple to do. Simply sprinkle copper sulfate onto a flame to see the color turn blue. You can also use alcohol or an alcohol-based fuel before lighting to achieve a brighter green color.
4. Fireproof Balloon
If you have more balloons left over from the baking soda and vinegar balloon experiment shown above, creating a fireproof balloon is another awesome chemical reaction experiment that’s easy to do and sure to impress.
For this experiment, all you need are two balloons, 50 milliliters of water, a syringe, and a candle or lighter. Simply blow two balloons up, one with 50ml of water added using the syringe. Hold each balloon over a candle to see which one bursts!
5. Foaming Volcano At Home Experiment
The foaming volcano experiment is similar to the baking soda and vinegar experiment except that it’s less explosive and involves different items. It uses baking soda, liquid soap, red food coloring, and acetic acid to create a foaming chemical reaction.
All it involves is using plasticine to create a volcano, then filling the inside with baking soda, a few drops of food coloring, and liquid soap. The last step is adding the acetic acid to watch the volcano erupt. Perform the experiment outside or in a tray to avoid mess!
6. Ice Cream In A Bag
Teach children that cooking also involves chemistry! This ice cream in a bag chemical reaction experiment is a great way to teach kids about freezing point depression, creating a tasty treat that they can also eat afterward.
The main items you’ll need for this experiment include zipper-top bags, ice, sodium chloride as table salt or rock salt, and ingredients for the ice cream, which are sugar, milk, whipping cream, and vanilla flavoring.
7. Elephant Toothpaste
This elephant toothpaste experiment is another simple chemical reaction that you can do at home using common household items. All you’ll need are an empty bottle (plastic or glass), 6% hydrogen peroxide, dry yeast, dish soap, food coloring, and warm water.
Similar to the foaming volcano, this elephant toothpaste experiment creates a chemical reaction that will see the bottle overflow with a foamy liquid. To make it extra fun, conduct the experiment with different food coloring!
8. Smoke Without Fire Experiment
“There’s no smoke without fire” unless you’re a chemist! This fun smoke-without-fire experiment demonstrates an awesome chemical reaction that creates smoke using a combination of concentrated hydrochloric acid and ammonia.
You will need some science equipment to perform this experiment, which includes three flasks connected by gas pipes. The chemical reaction produces a slow release of white smoke with, you guessed it, no fire or sparks.
9. Liquid Layer Density Tower
Density towers, or density columns, are a great way to show and explain the density levels of different liquids. You can use honey, corn syrup or pancake syrup, liquid dishwashing soap, water (with food coloring if desired), vegetable oil, rubbing alcohol, and lamp oil.
When you have a jar or container, the key is to put the heavier liquids in first, then pour the next liquids in using the side of the container. Even if you don’t get it right the first time, it’s a fun experiment that also creates a colorful display item!
If you and the kids don’t mind getting messy, this slime experiment is a fun chemical reaction that will create a thick, stretchy slime that becomes firmer and less sticky the more it’s played with. You can also add food coloring to create different colors of slime!
For this chemical reaction experiment, you’ll need borax powder, water, glue, and food coloring if you want to add color to the slime. You’ll also need a bowl, jar or measuring cup, and teaspoon for mixing.
11. Ignite A Candle With A Battery
Show your class that it’s possible to light a candle without matches or lighters with this awesome battery experiment! All it requires is an AA battery, chewing gum wrapper, cotton wool, scissors, and a candle.
You might not know this, but the chewing gum wrapper is coated with a layer of aluminum. As a good electrical conductor, the wrapper will generate an electric current when connected to the battery. The aluminum will heat up and light the cotton, which will ignite the candle.
12. DIY Lava Lamp
Lava lamps are awesome, so why not make a DIY one at home using an awesome chemical reaction? Although this DIY lava lamp won’t shine as brightly as a regular lava lamp, it’s still a fun experiment that will teach the kids about density.
The end result is a colorful liquid (use any kind of food coloring you like) with floating bubbles that can make a great bedroom ornament. It’s quick and simple, too, requiring just 30 minutes to create overall.
13. Homemade Science Christmas Ornament
Perfect for the holidays, this homemade science Christmas ornament experiment will get the kids to create glowing crystal icicles that can be hung outside or on the Christmas tree. It’s simple as well, only requiring borax powder, pipe cleaners, and string or twine.
To perform this chemical reaction experiment, you’ll need to add boiling hot water to a glass jar with borax. Twist the pipe cleaner around a pencil or pen to create a winding shape, then lower the pipe cleaner into the mixture with string. Leave until crystals start to form!
So there you have it: a list of awesome chemical experiments you can do at home to teach kids about the fascinating world of chemistry. These experiments are fun, educational, and sure to amaze kids of all ages!
Don’t forget: For health and safety reasons, just make sure to supervise your child while doing the above experiments or, if you’re a teacher, conduct the experiments in class or have the child’s parents supervise them at home.
- Recent Posts
- Homeschooling In High School: Pros And Cons - February 24, 2024
- How Do I Withdraw My Child From School To Homeschool? - February 23, 2024
- How To Not Go Crazy Homeschooling Kids: A Guide For Frazzled Parents - February 22, 2024
Related Posts:
Leave a comment Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
- Science Notes Posts
- Contact Science Notes
- Todd Helmenstine Biography
- Anne Helmenstine Biography
- Free Printable Periodic Tables (PDF and PNG)
- Periodic Table Wallpapers
- Interactive Periodic Table
- Periodic Table Posters
- Science Experiments for Kids
- How to Grow Crystals
- Chemistry Projects
- Fire and Flames Projects
- Holiday Science
- Chemistry Problems With Answers
- Physics Problems
- Unit Conversion Example Problems
- Chemistry Worksheets
- Biology Worksheets
- Periodic Table Worksheets
- Physical Science Worksheets
- Science Lab Worksheets
- My Amazon Books
Cool Chemistry Experiments
Cool chemistry experiments raise student interest in science and boost enthusiasm for learning. They are also a lot of fun! Here are some spectacular demonstrations and experiments to try.
Elephant Toothpaste
Elephant toothpaste is one chemistry experiment you shouldn’t miss. The experiment produces heaps of foam, which you can color or even form into shapes by using special containers. The classic version is a reaction between sodium or potassium iodide and peroxide. There is also a kid-friendly version that is safe for children (and adults) to touch.
Color Change Chemiluminescence
Most likely, you know about chemiluminescence from glow sticks , but there are more dramatic reactions you can try. For example, there is a cool chemistry experiment where you mix together chemicals, add peroxide, and the solution glows red and then glows blue . This experiment illustrates an exothermic reaction and a decomposition reaction.
Colored Fire Cool Chemistry Experiment
Making colored fire certainly qualifies as a cool chemistry experiment. Just choose the chemical for the color you want. Some of the chemicals are appropriate for making colored fire spray bottles , too. In addition to looking awesome, colored fire demonstrates the emission spectra of ions.
Copper and Nitric Acid Chemistry Experiment
The copper and nitric acid experiment is as easy as it gets, but it produces dramatic results that illustrate the metal activity series and coordination complexes. All you do is drop a piece of copper into nitric acid. The liquid changes from clear to blue-green and the reaction releases bubbles of reddish-brown vapor. Eventually, the liquid changes color to brown.
Sodium in Water Reaction
Sodium and other alkali metals react vigorously with water. The reaction become more vigorous as you move down the periodic table, so mixing sodium and water is the safest version of this chemistry experiment. You only use a tiny bit of the metal, yet it burns brightly and gives of sparks and flames. Sodium burns with a yellow flame, but other metals have their own characteristic colors. For example, potassium in water has a purple flame and rubidium in water has a red flame.
Chemical Traffic Light
The chemical traffic light is one of many color change chemistry demonstrations . It is a redox reaction where a solution changes red, green, and amber, like a traffic light. Temperature affects the rate of the color change, so it also illustrates principles of kinetics.
Thermite Reaction
The thermite reaction is one of the more dramatic chemistry experiments. All you do is mix a metal and a metal oxide and ignite it. But, this is no ordinary fire. The reaction is very bright and extremely hot. It is the burning of metal, so it serves as an example of oxidation, combustion, and exothermic reactions.
Dancy Gummy Bear
The dancing gummy bear is a chemistry experiment featuring a gummy bear candy “dancing” in purple flames. But, you can use any candy. A related experiment involves dropping a bit of charcoal into a tube of molten potassium nitrate, making the charcoal dance . The project illustrates combustion, oxidation, exothermic reactions, and the flame test for potassium.
Sugar and Sulfuric Acid Cool Reaction
The sugar and sulfuric acid reaction has another name: the carbon snake. This is a dehydration reaction and decomposition reaction that breaks sugar molecules into elemental carbon, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and water. The result is a steaming column of black carbon rising from its container. The experiment smells of burning caramel and rotten eggs.
Flower Shop Reaction
The flower shop or odor of violets reaction does not look as cool as some of the other reactions on this list, but it definitely smells the best. The simple reaction involves mixing two common chemicals and applying heat, releasing a chemical that smells like violets. This experiment demonstrates a rearrangement reaction. Another cool effect is the way the molecule affects the sense of smell such that the fragrance never becomes overpowering or fades.
- Shakhashiri, Bassam Z. (1983). Chemical Demonstrations: A Handbook for Teachers of Chemistry (1st ed.). University of Wisconsin Press. ISBN: 978-0299088903.
- Summerlin, Lee R.; Borgford, Christie L., Ealy, Julie B. (1988). Chemical Demonstrations: A Sourcebook for Teachers Volume 2 (2nd ed.). American Chemical Society. ISBN: 978-0841215351.
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
Learn how to make color changes, foams, and sounds with simple chemicals. These fun and easy projects are suitable for kids and adults who love science.
Explore the wonders of chemistry with these fun and easy experiments that demonstrate the properties and interactions of matter. From covalent bonds to color changing chemistry, discover the science behind everyday phenomena and have some fun at the same time.
Find fun and easy chemistry experiments for kids from preschool to high school. Learn about chemical reactions, properties, and applications with hands-on activities, printables, and videos.
Anne Helmenstine. Making a sparkly borax snowflake is a crystal-growing project that's safe and easy enough for kids. You can make shapes other than snowflakes, and you can color the crystals. If you use these as Christmas decorations and store them, the borax is a natural insecticide and will help keep your long-term storage area pest-free.
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.
Learn about chemical reactions, acids and bases, chromatography, solutions, polymers, and crystals with fun and easy activities for kids. Find out how to make slime, volcanoes, invisible ink, and more with common household ingredients.
Explore fun and easy chemistry experiments at home or school with Science Buddies. Learn about reactions, properties, and applications of chemicals with hands-on activities and projects.
Learn about chemistry with fun and easy experiments using common household items. From mentos and diet soda to slime and lava lamps, discover how to create awesome chemical reactions at home.
Learn how to perform spectacular and educational chemistry demonstrations with this web page. Find out how to make elephant toothpaste, colored fire, thermite, and more with easy instructions and references.
An experienced chemistry professor used to say that it took about one explosion per week to maintain college students' attention in chemistry lectures. At that rate, we'd get in pretty big trouble with a lot of parents and teachers! Don't worry, we still have lots of bubbles, fizzes, bangs, and color changes for you to explore.