Make a balloon rocket

Written By Alex .

Make a balloon fly across a piece of string like a rocket. This works by causing air to rush out of the balloon which creates a force to propel it forward. An easy to do experiment that has the added benefit of allowing you to do it as many times as you want (provided the balloon doesn’t burst!)

Equipment

  • Balloon

  • 10-15m of string

  • 1 drinking straw

  • Tape

  • Two items of furniture you can stretch the string between

Method

  1. Tie one end of the string to one of the items of furniture

  2. Thread the string through the straw

  3. Tie the end of the string to the other piece of furniture. Do this in such a way that the string is tight between the two objects

  4. Blow up the balloon and pinch the end so no air escapes

  5. Tape the balloon to the straw while keeping the end pinched (you may need another person to help you)

  6. Move the straw and balloon to one end of the string and let go to send it flying to the other end


Alex .
Next

Build a mini catapult