demonstrations:liquid_nitrogen_volcano
Liquid Nitrogen Volcano
Materials: ★★★ Requires materials not commonly found in school laboratories
Difficulty: ★★☆ Can be done by science teachers
Safety: ★★★ Only to be attempted with adequate safety procedures and trained staff
Categories: Liquid Nitrogen
Alternative titles: Liquid Nitrogen Bubbles
Summary
When liquid nitrogen is poured into warm water, it rapidly boils and expands into gas. Adding bubble mix traps the nitrogen gas, creating a foamy eruption that resembles a volcano.
Procedure
- Fill a large beaker or container with warm water.
- Add some bubble mix (dishwashing liquid also works) to the water and stir gently.
- Wearing cryogenic gloves and safety glasses, carefully pour liquid nitrogen into the container.
- Step back and watch as nitrogen gas forms rapidly, becoming trapped in the soap film.
- Observe the foamy “volcano” of bubbles overflowing from the container.
Links
📄🎞️ Liquid nitrogen volcano - ABC Education: https://www.abc.net.au/education/liquid-nitrogen-volcano/13895950
Variations
- Add food coloring to the bubble mix to make a more dramatic eruption.
- Place the container in a tray to catch the overflowing foam and create a larger effect.
- Use different temperatures of water (room temperature vs. hot) to compare how vigorous the eruption becomes.
Safety Precautions
- Safety glasses required.
- Wear cryogenic gloves when handling liquid nitrogen.
- Perform only in a well-ventilated area.
- Use a sturdy container such as a thick glass beaker or plastic bucket (never a sealed container).
- Stand back immediately after pouring liquid nitrogen to avoid splashes.
- Do not touch foam or bubbles directly, as traces of liquid nitrogen may remain inside.
Questions to Consider
- Why does liquid nitrogen boil so violently when added to warm water?
- What role does the bubble mix play in creating the volcano effect?
- How much does liquid nitrogen expand when it changes from liquid to gas?
- How is this demonstration similar to real volcanic eruptions?
- Why is ventilation important when using liquid nitrogen indoors?