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Description

Building a balloon powered boat that propels itself across water using reycling, straws and elastic bands

Resources

Balloons
Straws (need to be fairly robust and stay in shape
Elastic Bands
Container/trays (recycled ready meal trays, milk tetra cartons etc)
Scissors
Blue tac (to keep the straw in place if needed)
Water/Pond

Instructions

1. Make a small incision in the 'boat part' with scissors or a sharp knife (keep track of these with younger groups and adults should help/do).
2. Take a balloon and insert the straw into the neck by around 1.5cm.
3. Secure this with a tight elastic band (air needs to flow through so make sure not to squish the straw)
4. Place the straw through the hole you made in the container with the balloon 'inside and the straw acting as a rudder.
5. Blow up the balloon through the straw and then place on the water.
6. Depending on airflow this should then propel itself across the water.

Note: It's best to use something that has a reasonable large surface that will allow it to float on water but you can use anything and discuss which shapes make the best/fastest etc. It is a good practical example for the experiment badge, fun outside activity and a massive hit with our young people - we do this every year in our local park. With the younger groups you would need plenty of adults to help construct them initially.

Combine with Water Safety Code if you wish.

Tags

• Air propulsion
• balloon
• boat
• experiment
• Water Safety Code

Badge Links

• Adventure - Adventurous activity
• Adventure - Outdoor activity
• Experiment - Experiment
• Global Issues - Energy or recycling
• Safety - Water Safety Code
• Skills - Problem solving