Most people only think of using Alka-Seltzer when they have indigestion or heartburn. But, using this tablet in science experiments isn't just fun, it's also educational. You can see why the medication works the way it does and even watch as the chemical compounds react to different acids and bases.
Kids and adults will love the way this cheap science ingredient can create visual magic in an instant.
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1. Alka-Seltzer rockets
Alka-Seltzer tablets contain citric acid and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). When added to water, they produce a bubbling chemical reaction (similar to dry ice). When the water and tablet combine in a closed jar, the pressure builds up until it explodes.
Alka-Seltzer tablets contain citric acid and sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). When added to water, they produce a bubbling chemical reaction (similar to dry ice). When the water and tablet combine in a closed jar, the pressure builds up until it explodes.
2. Alka-Seltzer and hydrochloric acid
If you've ever wondered how Alka-Seltzer helps when you're having stomach troubles, this experiment shows you exactly what happens when the tablet combines with acid. The carbonate (Alka-Seltzer) neutralizes the acid by breaking it down into water and carbon dioxide.
If you've ever wondered how Alka-Seltzer helps when you're having stomach troubles, this experiment shows you exactly what happens when the tablet combines with acid. The carbonate (Alka-Seltzer) neutralizes the acid by breaking it down into water and carbon dioxide.
3. Coke, milk, oil, soap, and Alka-Seltzer
This experiment showcases several different principles, including density. As you add each ingredient, the less dense elements rise to the top. When you add the Alka-Seltzer, it reacts to the acid in the soda, causing a beautiful (and slow) explosion of colors.
This experiment showcases several different principles, including density. As you add each ingredient, the less dense elements rise to the top. When you add the Alka-Seltzer, it reacts to the acid in the soda, causing a beautiful (and slow) explosion of colors.
4. Exploding art (h/t Housing a Forest)
This visual experiment provides some colorful fun. The chemical reaction between the watered-down paint and the Alka-Seltzer result in an explosion. The bright paint will splatter where it lands, so you can get an idea of which canisters are popping. Try adding different amounts of color to see if the explosion size varies.
This visual experiment provides some colorful fun. The chemical reaction between the watered-down paint and the Alka-Seltzer result in an explosion. The bright paint will splatter where it lands, so you can get an idea of which canisters are popping. Try adding different amounts of color to see if the explosion size varies.
5. Snowstorm in a jar (h/t Growing a Jeweled Rose)
A combination of density (the oil is lighter than the water) and chemical reactions (the Alka-Seltzer creates a chemical reaction that allows oil and glitter bubbles to form in the water) create a spectacular winter show, even in the middle of summer. (Olaf would be so proud!)
A combination of density (the oil is lighter than the water) and chemical reactions (the Alka-Seltzer creates a chemical reaction that allows oil and glitter bubbles to form in the water) create a spectacular winter show, even in the middle of summer. (Olaf would be so proud!)
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