- 5 - 15 mins
- Fine motor, science concepts
- Mess free
- Easy
This balloon rocket is a super fun, super simple science experiment for everyone to enjoy. Minimal resources required, easy to set up, quick to conduct and an array of learning opportunities to be had.
Your children will engage in many scientific concepts such as prediction, experimentation, cause and effect principles as well as learn the basic effects of air pressure and thrust all whilst having a fabulous time watching their balloon turn into a zooming rocket! Don’t wait, try it today, you wont be disappointed.
What you will need
- 1x Balloon
- Long piece of string or twine
- 1x Straw
- Tape
Activity steps
Setup
- Tie one piece of string to a firm object inside or outside.
- Thread your straw onto the other end of your string and then tie securely to another firm object on the opposite side of the room. Make sure to make your string tight.
- Blow up your balloon (but don’t tie it). Pinch the end and use your tape to attach the balloon to the straw.
- Count back from 10 and let go of your balloon.
- Watch as the balloon launches like a real rocket!
How does it work?
When you blow up your balloon, you fill it up with air. The more air you blow the more pressure it builds up. When you let go of the balloon the air pressure is released. When the air is released it creates a forward motion called thrust. Thrust is a pushing force created by energy. In this experiment, the air releasing creates energy and thrust that pushes the balloon along the string from one side to another.
Extension ideas
- Try different shape balloons, does it effect the motion or how far it travels?
- Experiment with different string types, lengths and angles. Does it make a difference?
- Can you measure how far your rocket launched?
Learning Opportunities
- Fine motor- Fine motor skills will be engaged with tying string, threading the straw, sticking with tape, pinching the neck of the balloon.
- Science concepts- Your children will be encouraged to engage in basic science concepts such as prediction, experimentation, investigation, and critical thinking. They will learn the basic effects of cause and effect, air pressure and thurst.
Reference sites
We would like to acknowledge these amazing sites that have inspired us to create this activity. Thank you!