Go to my saved resources

We’re exploring the three states of matter – solids, liquids, and gases – and how they change in this fun video.

Want to make the growing pumpkin at home or in your classroom? Watch the video for an overview, gather the materials listed at the right, and follow the instructions below!

Required Materials

  • 1 Alka Seltzer tablet
  • water
  • food coloring (optional)
  • plastic bottle
  • balloon
  • marker (optional)

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1

Fill your bottle with water (liquid).

Step 2

Place the Alka Seltzer tablet (solid) inside of the balloon. You’ll likely need to break it up a bit before inserting it. Optional: draw a spooky face on your balloon with a permanent marker before you insert the Alka Seltzer!

Step 3

Stretch the lip of the balloon over the bottle’s neck. You’ll need to hold the part of the balloon that contains the antacid tablet/baking soda while you do this to ensure that it doesn’t spill into the bottle before you’re ready.

Step 4

Drop the Alka Seltzer (solid) into the water (liquid).

Step 5

Watch as the two substances react with each other to create carbon dioxide (gas)! If you don’t have Alka Seltzer, swapping it for baking soda and using lemon juice in place of the water also works!