Balloon Rocket Race

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 Ages: 8-12

Objective: Demonstrate how air pressure can be used to create movement and explore the principles of action and reaction.

Materials Needed:

  1. Balloons (one per participant)
  2. Drinking straws (one per participant)
  3. String or yarn (about 6 feet long)
  4. Tape
  5. Scissors
  6. Ruler (optional)

Procedure:

  1. Setup the Track:

    • Stretch a piece of string or yarn across a room or open space. Secure each end of the string with tape or tie it to two stationary objects (e.g., chairs, doorknobs). Make sure the string is taut.

  2. Prepare the Balloon Rocket:

    • Thread a drinking straw onto the string. This will act as the “rocket” that travels along the string.

  3. Attach the Balloon:

    • Inflate a balloon but do not tie it. Pinch the end of the balloon to keep the air from escaping. Tape the balloon to the straw so that the opening of the balloon is facing backward (opposite the direction you want the straw to move).

  4. Launch the Rocket:

    • Release the pinched end of the balloon and let go of the straw. The escaping air will push the straw along the string, creating a “rocket” effect.

  5. Observe and Record:

    • Watch how the balloon rocket travels along the string. You can measure how far it travels or compare the speed of different balloon rockets.

Explanation:

  • When the air rushes out of the balloon, it creates a force in the opposite direction, pushing the balloon and straw along the string. This is a demonstration of Newton's Third Law of Motion: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

Extensions:

  1. Different Sizes:

    • Try using balloons of different sizes to see how it affects the rocket’s speed and distance traveled.

  2. String Lengths:

    • Experiment with different lengths of string to see how it impacts the rocket's performance.

  3. Angles and Obstacles:

    • Create an inclined plane or obstacles on the string to challenge the balloon rocket to navigate through.

Safety Note:

  • Ensure children do not put the balloons in their mouths or swallow any small pieces. Supervise the activity to prevent any accidents.

This experiment provides a hands-on way to explore air pressure, force, and motion, while adding an element of fun with the balloon rocket race!

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