Easy Earth Day Science Experiment (STEM Activity)

To celebrate Earth Day (and encourage conversation), do this fun fizzy Earth Day science experiment with your kids! It’s a simple Earth Day activity that uses vinegar and baking soda to get and hold their attention from start to finish.

Earth Day science experiment pin

Spring! Earth Day! Let’s face it, Earth Day should really be every day, but let’s take the day to be extra mindful of the planet. We’ve got an exciting Earth Day STEM activity that will enthrall kids about the wonder of planet Earth.

For a fun twist on science experiments, try this Fizzy Earth Day Experiment with baking soda, vinegar, and vibrant colors to make it look just like our planet.

It’ll help teach your little ones about the planet, plus engage them in conversations about why it’s important to take care of the environment. Earth Day only comes around once a year, so don’t let it go to waste!

A Brief History of Earth Day

Why do we celebrate Earth Day, you may ask?

Earth Day is like a birthday for our planet!

It’s a special day each year to remember how much Mother Nature has done for us and pledge to take care of her in return. Earth Day is the perfect opportunity to reflect on how we impact the planet and brainstorm creative solutions for preserving our planet’s ecosystem! 

It all started back in 1962 when Rachel Carson published her iconic book “Silent Spring.” In it, she warned of the dangers of pesticides and the importance of protecting our planet. Senator Gaylord Nelson saw this and decided it would be the perfect time to throw a massive environmental party – and with that, Earth Day was born!

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earth day coloring pages mockup

On April 22nd, 1970 (strategically scheduling it between spring break and final exams to encourage student mobilization) Earth Day was born. Millions of people from 192 countries came together in rallies, marches, and other events to champion the cause of nature preservation and sustainable living.

As a result of its success, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other laws like the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act were founded! Fast forward to now, over 1 billion people in 192 countries celebrate Earth Day every year with eco-friendly initiatives and activities!

Nowadays, Earth Day is still a global event, with exciting activities and conversations that help us remember to look after our environment and live in a more sustainable way!

So grab a friend, and come join in on the fun of Earth Day!

Why do an Earth Day Activity?

Earth Day is the perfect time to introduce the little ones to the significance of looking after our planet. It’s a great chance to get your kiddos involved in activities that help to spread the word about environmental issues.

If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to get your kids jazzed about the environment, look no further than this fun Earth Day activity!

Not only will it pique their interest, but it’ll also help them understand how to keep Mother Nature thriving. What better way to have some fun and learn the importance of preserving our planet?

How to do this Earth Day STEM Activity

If you can make a volcano, you can definitely do this Earth Day activity!

Earth Day Science Experiment Supplies Needed

  • Baking soda
  • Vinegar
  • Green food coloring
  • Blue food coloring
  • Small bowls
  • Dropper
  • Round pan
  • Stirring straws
  • Spatula
STEM activity spplies

Earth Day Science Experiment Directions

This Earth Day science experiment is super easy. Just follow these step-by-step instructions!

Step 1

Fill the small bowls with vinegar (about ¾ full). 

Step 2

Add about 5 drops of green food coloring to a bowl. Stir well.

Step 3

Add about 5 drops of blue food coloring to the other bowl. Stir well.

Earth Day science experiment colored vinegar

Step 4

Pour baking soda into the pan and spread out into an even layer using a spatula.

Step 5

Fill the dropper with the green-colored vinegar. Drop the vinegar onto the baking soda around the pan to represent ‘land.’ Watch the fizzy reaction!

adding colored vinegar to Earth Day science experiment

Step 6

Fill the dropper with the blue-colored vinegar. Drop the vinegar onto the baking soda around the pan to represent ‘water.’ Watch the fizzy reaction!

Earth Day activity process

Continue this process until all of the baking soda is colored either green or blue to represent Earth.

Earth Day Activity FAQs

What do I need to do this Earth Day science experiment?

To do this experiment, you will need a few basic supplies, such as a clear container, water, food coloring, and a few drops of oil. You will also need some paper towels, a spoon, and a few other items.

How long does the experiment take to complete?

Not long! This Earth Day activity should take about 10-15 minutes to complete.

What does the experiment look like?

The experiment is a simple one that uses water, food coloring, and a few other items to create a colorful representation of Earth.

What does the experiment teach us about our planet?

This experiment helps teach kids about the importance of preserving our planet. It shows them how the different layers of the Earth are connected, and how they can affect each other.

It also helps them understand the importance of preserving our planet’s resources, and how the choices we make can have an impact on the environment.

How does the baking soda and colored vinegar create the fizzy effect?

The sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and weak acetic acid in vinegar react and trap the carbon dioxide to form bubbles. The mixture of the baking soda (solid) and vinegar (liquid) creates a gas and a liquid, which in turn results in a foam (a mixture of gas and liquid, or a colloid).

Do I need to use any special ingredients?

Nope! This Earth Day science experiment uses simple supplies you probably already have at home!

Is this experiment safe for my kids?

Yes, it’s perfectly safe. If they put their hands into the baking soda and vinegar, I do recommend washing them after.

What age group is this experiment best suited for?

Kids from toddlers to preteens and even teens can all enjoy this Earth Day science experiment and engage in live conversations about our precious planet!

Just click on the image below and enter your email address to receive your free instant download! 👇

earth day coloring pages mockup

Earth Day Science Experiment: More Hands-On Fun You’ll Love

If you love this Earth Day activity, be sure to also check out these popular ideas!

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