by Wes Becker

Created on: May 20, 2008

One of the advantages of learning sciences at an early age is that sciences such as chemistry can be portrayed in fun and interesting ways. Simple and easy experiments can show kids how science works and will also make them very interested in science. Getting kids interested in science at an early age is important, especially today. In the modern day there are no new great breakthroughs. There are no more space expeditions to unexplored planets. There are no new ways to fuel a car. Today we need new fuel sources, new ways to make an engine. The internal combustion engine is outdated now, but unfortunately there is nothing to replace it. We need new scientists to send us to mars. We need new scientists to create new types of engines that can realistically be mass produced. These can only be produced by devoted scientists. These scientists would have an early interest in science and that would only be produced from interesting science classes for kids. This can happen with science experiments.

Producing a special periodic table, made to contour to child use would help in the area of chemistry. A periodic table could be confusing for adults to use, let alone kids. Seeing that the periodic table is the center of chemistry, creating a special periodic table would be key in making children interested in chemistry at a young age. Using colors to better show the groupings of elements and also possibly rearranging the table in a more easily learnable order would be very effective for young chemistry students.

One of the most popular chemistry experiments is the volcano. The volcano gives students an early look at chemical reactions. By using simple everyday objects found in a regular household, a young student would be able to produce a small explosion. This would certainly interest the average elementary age student. Here is how the volcano is produced: The chemical reaction between baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and vinegar (acetic acid) produces carbon dioxide gas, which forms bubbles in the dishwashing detergent. The chemicals are non-toxic (though not tasty), making this project a good choice for scientists of all ages.

What You Will Need

* 3 cups flour
* 1 cup salt
* 2 tablespoons cooking oil
* empty 20-oz drink bottle
* deep plate or a pan
* gel food coloring
* dishwashing detergent
* baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
* vinegar (dilute acetic acid)

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