Two sixth grade students contributed this story about a science experiment in the middle school:

We had so much fun in Mrs. Miller’s class today! We made an explosion; it was tiny but still an explosion. We mixed baking soda, vinegar, and water in a zip lock bag. We did this outside where we play football at recess.  The bags filled up with carbon dioxide gases until there was no space. Then POP! The gases put too much pressure on the bag and it exploded.

by Dorian Clinton

Today in Mrs. Miller’s class, we did an experiment. We used baking soda, vinegar and water. First, we put ¼ cup of warm water in a zip lock bag and added ½ cup of vinegar. Then we put 1 ½ Tbs. of baking soda in a paper towel and folded it into a packet. We put this time-release packet into the bag and zipped it quickly. Finally, we shook the bag and placed it on the ground. The shaking causes bubbles, and the bag got bigger, and then it busted open. It was really cool!

by Dakota McDaniel

Check out these photos:

Why does the Bubble Bomb explode?

The bubbles in the Bubble Bomb are filled with carbon dioxide, a gas that forms when the vinegar (an acid) reacts with the baking soda (a base).

If you want to find out more about the science behind this demonstration go to http://www.exploratorium.edu/science_explorer/bubblebomb.html and learn more!