Day 5: Balloon Racing!
Instructions:
- Inflate a balloon but do not tie it. Twist the open end and secure it using a clip or clothespin to keep the air inside.
- Thread a straw through a long piece of string or fishing line. Make sure the string is long enough to stretch across your race area.
- Tie or tape one end of the string to a fixed object like a chair, a doorknob, or a tree, and secure the other end to another fixed point. Ensure the string is pulled taut.
- Tape the straw to the top of the balloon. Position the balloon so that its nozzle points backward, as this will provide propulsion.
- Repeat steps 1–4 to set up additional balloons and string tracks if you want to create a race. Make sure each string track is parallel to the others.
- Once ready to race, remove the clip or release the balloon’s nozzle and watch it zoom along the string. The backward air propulsion will propel the balloon forward.
- Experiment with balloon sizes, string lengths, or straw positioning to see how they affect the race.
- Decorate your balloons to make the races more fun and personalized.
- Take a photo or video of your setup and results.