Halloween Science: Frankenworms
- by KitchenPantryScientist
A chemical reaction happens when you mix two or more things together to make something new.
Mixing sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and acetic acid (vinegar) together produces carbon dioxide gas bubbles, which can make gummy worms which have been cut into very thin strips squirm and float! My kids created this experiment a few years ago! Can you think of an experiment you could do with candy?
To make Frankenworms:
1. Cut gummy worms into skinny, skinny long strips (May require adult assistance. The skinnier they are, the better they’ll work.) *Not all gummy worms are created equal. If your worms aren’t wriggling, dip them in baking soda before putting them in the vinegar!
2. Soak the worms in a bowl of water with a few tablespoons of baking soda mixed in for around 20-30 minutes.
3. Drop the baking-soda infused worms into a large, clear glass or jar full of white vinegar and watch them come to “life.”