Hooked on Science: Kentucky Derby Balloon Race

Ingredients

• Long Balloons
• Straws
• String
• Tape

Instructions

STEP 1: Place two chairs several feet from each other. Run a string between the two chairs.

STEP 2: Tie one end of the string to the back of one chair, thread the string through a straw, and then tie the free end of the string to the other chair.

STEP 3: Blow up a balloon to about the length of the straw, pinch the neck closed so no air escapes, and tape the inflated balloon to the straw.

STEP 4: Hold the inflated balloon under the straw with its neck against the back of one chair, release the balloon, and observe.

Explanation

As the air rushes out of the balloon, the opposite and equal reaction causes the balloon to push forward.

Extension

Tie several strings next to each other and create your own Kentucky Derby race in your classroom or living room. Have each student or member of the family race to see which balloon finishes first. You could even name your balloon after your favorite Kentucky Derby horse.

Jason Lindsey is a science outreach educator with Hooked on Science. Check out his website, hookedonscience.org, for webcasts and experiments.