Materials:
Popcorn kernels*
Baking soda
Water
White vinegar
Clear containers (we use mason jars)

Steps:
1. In a clear jar, add 1.5 cups of water.
2. Add 1 tablespoon baking soda and stir until it is mostly dissolved.
3. Add 1/4 cup popcorn kernels.
4. Slowly add vinegar and watch the popcorn dance!

If the movement of the popcorn kernels starts to slow down, you can add more vinegar to keep the kernels “dancing”!

The Science:
The kernels “dance” because the chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar produces carbon dioxide bubbles in the water. The bubbles attach to the kernels and carry them to the surface of the water. Once the bubbles hit the surface, the bubbles pop and the popcorn kernels sink back to the bottom! The process continues as long as more bubbles are being produced. Once you notice that fewer popcorn kernels are being carried to the surface, you can slowly add more vinegar to keep the reaction going and to keep your popcorn kernels DANCING!

*This science activity will work with undyed popcorn kernels, but if you want to create Dancing Rainbow Popcorn Kernels (like in the video below), you can find the instructions for dyeing popcorn kernels here: How to Dye Popcorn Kernels for a Sensory Bin.

Follow the instructions to dye the popcorn kernels, let the kernels fully dry, and then follow the instructions above to watch the popcorn kernels dance!