Baking Soda and Vinegar Rockets

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 Ages: 8-12

Objective: Teach children about chemical reactions and propulsion by creating a simple rocket using baking soda and vinegar.

Materials Needed:

  1. Empty film canister with a tight-fitting lid (or a small plastic container with a screw-on lid)
  2. Baking soda
  3. Vinegar
  4. Measuring spoons
  5. A small piece of paper or tissue
  6. Optional: food coloring for a visual effect
  7. Safety goggles (for protection)

Procedure:

  1. Prepare the Rocket:

    • Make sure the film canister or plastic container is clean and dry.

  2. Add the Baking Soda:

    • Measure about 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda and place it into the small piece of paper or tissue. Fold it to create a small packet.

  3. Prepare the Vinegar:

    • Pour about 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar into the film canister. You can add a few drops of food coloring if you want a colorful "rocket fuel."

  4. Set Up the Rocket Launch:

    • Place the baking soda packet into the film canister with the vinegar.
    • Quickly put the lid on the canister and shake it slightly to mix the ingredients.

  5. Launch the Rocket:

    • Place the canister on a flat surface and step back. The reaction will create gas and pressure, causing the lid to pop off and the canister to launch into the air.

  6. Observe the Reaction:

    • Watch as the canister shoots up, demonstrating the power of the gas produced by the reaction between baking soda (a base) and vinegar (an acid).

Explanation:

  • The experiment demonstrates an acid-base reaction. When baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) reacts with vinegar (acetic acid), it produces carbon dioxide gas. The gas builds up pressure inside the canister until the lid pops off, propelling the canister into the air.

Extensions:

  1. Measure and Compare: Experiment with different amounts of baking soda and vinegar to see how they affect the height and distance of the launch.

  2. Add Fins: Create and attach small fins to the canister to see how they affect the flight path and stability of the rocket.

  3. Decorate: Decorate the canister to make it look like a real rocket, and discuss rocket design and aerodynamics.

  4. Experiment with Different Containers: Test different types of containers and observe how they impact the rocket's performance.

Safety Note:

  • Ensure children wear safety goggles to protect their eyes from any potential splashes. Conduct the experiment in an open area to avoid damage and ensure proper cleanup after the launch.

This experiment  

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