Vinegar and Baking Soda

Description

A balloon with baking soda in it was stretched over the mouth of a flask containing vinegar. The balloon was tipped so that the baking soda fell into the vinegar, and the reaction bubbled and inflated the balloon.

Explanation

Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃), a weak base, and vinegar contains acetic acid (HC₂H₃O₂), a weak acid. When mixed, the two react in an acid-base neutralization reaction. One of the products is carbon dioxide gas (CO₂), which causes the bubbling and inflates the balloon.

NaHCO₃(aq) + H C₂H₃O₂(aq)NaC₂H₃O₂(aq) + H₂O(l) + CO₂(g)

How can I do it at home?

An adult must be present. 

1. Put a small amount of baking soda into a glass
2. Pour a small amount of vinegar into the glass
3. Watch the fun!

What would happen if...

• you try adding more or less vinegar?
• you try adding more or less baking soda?
• you try adding warm vinegar or cold vinegar?

still have questions?  email us!

explanation furnished by UCCS's Dr. David Anderson

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