Learn by Camping: Classes for All
Bouncing Raisins
Description: The gas, carbon dioxide, that forms when you add vinegar to the baking soda forms bubbles
all over the raisins. The raisins start to rise as the bubbles of carbon dioxide carry the raisins upwards and
they fall when the bubbles are released.
Goals: To teach the scientific principal that vinegar and baking soda produce carbon dioxide that is lighter
than water.
Objectives:
1. The participant will learn how to use measuring spoons.
2. The participant will learn that vinegar and baking soda produce carbon dioxide
3. The participant will learn that the gas bubbles rise because gas is lighter
than water.
4. The participant will learn that the raisins rise to the top because the gas
bubbles are supporting them.
5. The participant will learn that whenever the gas bubbles around the raisin
release, the raisins will drop to the bottom again as they are heavier than
water.
Materials:
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6 raisins
Glass tumbler or jar
Vinegar
Baking soda (or Alka Seltzer tablet)
Procedure:
1.
2.
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5.
Pour a cup of water into the glass jar.
Add one teaspoon of baking soda and stir until dissolved.
Gently add one-fourth cup of vinegar and wait until it stops fizzing.
Drop in three or four raisins.
Watch and see what happens (it takes about 10 to 15 minutes).
Resource: www.familyeducation.com
Alice K. Dolu, WVU Extension Agent, 4-H Youth Development – Marshall County
July 16
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