Elephant Toothpaste

Introduction

Create a giant foaming reaction and wow your friends with this classic science demonstration! With just a few simple ingredients, you can make something that looks like toothpaste being squeezed from a tube—but so big, it must be for elephants!

Credits

Materials

• Empty plastic bottle
• Dry yeast
• Warm water
• Liquid dish soap
• Liquid food coloring
• 3% hydrogen peroxide. See the Further Exploration section for instructions on using a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide.
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Safety glasses
• Large tub or tray to catch the foam, or outdoor location to do the experiment