Description
Exploding Pop Rockets is a fun and educational science activity that combines simple household ingredients to create colorful, fizzy rocket launches. Using film canisters or small condiment cups, this hands-on experiment demonstrates chemical reactions and gas buildup, making it an exciting outdoor activity for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Materials
- 6 empty 35 mm film canisters with tight-fitting lids (or mini condiment cups with snap lids)
- 1 box baking soda OR Alka-Seltzer tablets
- Vinegar (white or apple cider)
- Optional: food coloring (a few drops for colorful eruptions)
- Optional: fine glitter (a pinch for sparkle trails)
- Funnel or small spoon
- Safety goggles
Instructions
- Prepare Safety Equipment and Launch Area: Put on safety goggles to protect your eyes, and choose an outdoor space with plenty of open room for launching the rockets safely.
- Fill Canister with Vinegar: Pour vinegar into each film canister until it is approximately one-third full.
- Add Color and Sparkle (Optional): Add 2 to 3 drops of food coloring and a pinch of fine glitter into the vinegar for a visually exciting eruption.
- Prepare Baking Soda Packet: If using baking soda, place 1 teaspoon into a small piece of tissue paper and twist it closed to form a time-delay packet that will dissolve slowly once inside the vinegar.
- Add Reaction Agent and Seal: Quickly drop the baking soda packet into the canister or add half an Alka-Seltzer tablet, then snap the lid on tightly to trap the gas generated.
- Launch the Rocket: Immediately flip the canister upside down with the lid on the ground, then step back at least 6 feet to a safe distance.
- Watch the Reaction: Wait as pressure builds inside the canister until it pops, launching the canister upwards like a rocket.
- Repeat: Use fresh ingredients and repeat the process for multiple exciting launches.
Notes
- Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes during launches.
- Perform the experiment outdoors or in a well-ventilated area to avoid mess and ensure safety.
- Use tissue packets to delay the reaction for a stronger launch.
- Do not stand too close to the canister when launching to prevent injury.
- Adult supervision is recommended for children during the experiment.
