Activity Overview
If you puncture a balloon, it is certain to pop, right? Well, the with Unpoppable Balloon Experiment, kids can test that theory and challenge your notions about such hypotheses. Budding scientists of all ages will enjoy this intriguing scientific feat that demonstrates surface tension.
If you quickly poke a balloon with a sharp object it will pop the surface tension is broken. However, if you slowly apply a force to the top of a balloon, where the surface tension is the lowest, the balloon will not pop
Materials Needed
- Balloons
- Wooden skewer or a knitting needle
- Cooking oil
How to Do It
- Blow up a balloon and tie a knot in it. Before you proceed, be certain that the height and width of the balloon is not longer than the skewer.
- Take the skewer and coat it with vegetable oil. This will create a seal between the balloon’s surface and the skewer which will prevent air from leaking out of the balloon.
- Carefully puncture the top of the balloon (where the material is the darkest in color) with the skewer. Rotating the skewer will assist you with inserting the skewer as you apply pressure to the balloon.
- Once the skewer pierces the balloon, slide the skewer through the balloon to the bottom and out the other end.
