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General Chemistry Science Fair Project

Glow-in-the-Dark Lava Lamp

Easy
Glow-in-the-Dark Lava Lamp | Science Fair Projects | STEM Projects
Make a unique lava lamp that glows in the dark without using a black light. Watch as the swirling colors and bubbles create a glowing display!

Hypothesis

The hypothesis is that combining glow-in-the-dark gel, warm water, baby oil, and Alka-Seltzer tablets will create a bubbling glow effect in the lava lamp.

Method & Materials

You will mix glow-in-the-dark gel with warm water, add glow-in-the-dark glitter, pour in baby oil, and then drop Alka-Seltzer tablets into the jar. Observe the bubbling and glowing reaction in the dark.
You will need a clear jar, glow-in-the-dark gel, warm water, baby oil, Alka-Seltzer tablets, and glow-in-the-dark glitter.

Results

As the Alka-Seltzer tablets react with the water, colorful carbon dioxide bubbles rise through the oil layer. When the carbon dioxide escapes at the top, the colored water droplet sinks back to the bottom, creating a cycle of rising and sinking colored blobs. The glowing gel adds an extra touch of magic, making this lava lamp super fun to see in the dark!

Why do this project?

This science project is intriguing because it combines the magic of glow-in-the-dark materials, the separation between oil and water, and the exciting chemical reaction between Alka-Seltzer tablets and water. It's a unique way to explore scientific phenomena.

Also Consider

Try using different colors of glow-in-the-dark gel to create a multicolored lava lamp effect. Add other small objects, such as beads or sequins, to see how they interact and move in the lava lamp.

Full project details

You can find additional information and details for this science fair project here. Have fun exploring!

Related videos

Hey there! Here are some awesome videos about this science project that we think you'll really like. They're not only super fun, but they'll also help you learn more about the science behind the project. So sit back, relax, and get ready to have some fun!!
Add more glow into your lava lamp with fizzy tonic water, glow-in-the-dark pigment and blacklight!
Did you know you can use the ink from highlighters to make a glow-in-the-dark lava lamp? A blacklight will make the highlighter ink glow!
If you don’t have a blacklight, an easy way to make a glow-in-the-dark lava lamp is to put a glow stick in the lava lamp!
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