Can I use a balloon for electricity to send my car to go? To get to the bottom of this interesting question, take a look at the experiment below. Plus, fill out the form on this page, grab a free recording sheet and share this balloon-driven car experiment with your class.
How do balloon-driven car experiments work?
The concept behind the experiment is that the energy stored when the balloon inflates is released when air is pushed out. This will allow the toy car to move forward and look like it is moving in itself.
What do balloon-driven car experiments teach?
This experiment illustrates the fundamental principles of physics, including pneumatic pressure and propulsion. When the air escapes the balloon, it creates a force (thrust) that propels the car forward. This illustrates Newton’s third law of movement. “There is an equal and oppositional response to every action.”
Are there any experimental videos of balloon-powered cars?
This video shows detailed step-by-step instructions in a visual way to master the experiment.
Necessary materials
To perform a balloon-driven vehicle experiment, you need to:
Small toy car (with free rolling wheels) 1 balloon 1 drinking straw tape (any type that can safely hold the material)
Free recording sheets are also useful. Please fill out the form on this page to obtain it.
Balloon-driven car experiment steps:
1. Prepare the balloon.
Inflate the balloon slightly and stretch the air several times. Slide one end of the balloon onto the tip of the straw to expose enough straw to allow air to escape. Secure the connection with tape to create an airtight seal.
2. Install the balloon setup.
Stick the straw (with balloons attached) firmly onto the top of the toy car. Place the straw so that it extends slightly above the edge of the car, allowing the balloon to inflate onto the car.
3. Inflate the balloon.
While attached to the car, blow air into the straw to inflate the balloon. Pinch the straw to prevent air from escaping.
4. Release and observation.
Place the car on a flat surface, release the straw and watch the car move forward as the balloon deflates.
Make my free balloon drive car experiment printable!
If you’re ready to try out your class experiments, get a printable balloon-driven car experimental worksheet and pair it with your lesson.
