Category: Home Experiments

Balloon Thermal Experiment

Contributed by Yutao Zhou Introduction We know that balloons would pop easily, but what if I tell you I could make a balloon survive fire simply by putting some water into it? Materials Balloons Candle Water Procedure 1. First we light a candle 2. Then we find a balloon and fill it up with water.…
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Carbon Dioxide Candle Experiment

Contributed by David Jiang Introduction We’ve all seen fire extinguishers before and its powerful stream of nitrogen which can smother a dangerous fire. However, imagine a fire extinguisher that can take out fires “invisibly”. Here is a fun experiment to design your very own, invisible fire extinguisher. Materials 2 regular-sized cups Matches/Lighter 1 candle Vinegar…
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Bouncing the Ball

Contributed by Jikai Xu Introduction When you drop a ball from the air to the ground, you may naturally suppose the ball will bounce back to a lower height than the releasing position. But, can you imagine a ball to bounce back to an even higher position? Materials A small ball that can bounce back…
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Balloons and Static Electricity

Contributed by Sabrina Brickner Introduction How does charge work? Can we really see how electrons work without fancy science tools? Materials Balloons Someone with hair on their head A working faucet An empty metal can Procedure Blow up a balloon. Rub it on your head. Watch what happens to the balloon and your hair. Turn…
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Measuring the Curvature of the Earth, in the Style of the Ancient Greeks

Contributed by George Hulsey The flat earth movement is stronger than ever! Have you ever wanted to prove for yourself that we do, in fact, live on a globe, instead of a big disk? You’re in luck–you can do it with just a roll of paper towels and a Zoom call to a friend or…
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