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Space-Themed Lava Lamp Jars

A fun and educational DIY project to create mesmerizing lava lamp jars using simple household materials.
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Course: Crafts, DIY
Cuisine: Creative, Educational
Keyword: DIY Project, kids activity, Lava Lamp, Science Experiment, Space Theme
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 1 jar

Ingredients

Basic Materials

  • 1 jar Clear glass jar with a lid Any clear container can work as long as it doesn't leak.
  • 1 cup Water Fills the jar about one-quarter full.
  • 1 cup Vegetable oil (or baby oil) Leave some space at the top of the jar.
  • a few drops Food coloring (assorted colors) Choose multiple colors for a dazzling effect.
  • 1 tablet Alka-Seltzer tablets (or equivalent effervescent tablet) Break into small pieces for the lava effect.
  • optional Glitter For a cosmic sparkle.
  • optional Small funnel Helps pour liquids into the jar.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Thoroughly clean the glass jar and ensure it's dry.
  • Use the funnel (if available) to pour water into the jar, filling it about one-quarter full.

Layering

  • Slowly pour vegetable oil into the jar until it’s nearly full, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
  • Watch as the oil and water separate, creating a two-layer effect.

Adding Color

  • Add a few drops of food coloring to the water and observe how it sinks and mixes.

Creating the Lava Effect

  • Break an Alka-Seltzer tablet into small pieces.
  • Drop one piece into the jar and watch the fizzy reaction create the lava effect.
  • If the fizz dies down, add more Alka-Seltzer to reset the effect.

Notes

For a customized experience, use different food colors or try adding glitter. Experiment with various jar sizes for visual impact and different oils for varied effects.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g