The Balloon Experiment

The Balloon Experiment

Chemical reactions are important to learn because they can be dangerous, but they can also be fun to watch! Your kids will love this experiment because it shows them a chemical reaction in action while demonstrating the power that such a reaction can have. As a result, they will be encouraged to explore the way in which other materials react to one another. This experiment isn't dangerous but will show them that combining chemicals causes reactions which in return can be dangerous. So be sure to stress that part while going through this experiment with them.

What you'll need:

• Soda Bottle
• Balloon
• Water (A little over 2.5 tablespoons)
•  Vinegar
• Straw
• Baking Soda (1 Teaspoon)

Instructions:

Start by stretching the balloons out, making it easier for them to fill with carbon dioxide once the chemical reaction begins.
Next, have your kids pour a little over two and a half tablespoons of water into the soda bottle. As you prepare the baking soda, also have your children get ready to attach the balloon.
After the water is in the bottle, add a teaspoon of baking soda and mix it with the straw. When the baking soda has dissolved, add the vinegar.
Immediately after pouring, have your kids attach the balloon to the mouth of the soda bottle. As the chemical reaction takes place, the balloon will inflate with carbon dioxide. Talk to your kids about how chemical reactions form. In this case, the reaction is between basic (water) and acidic (vinegar) substances.
This activity will show your kids how chemical reactions take place while demonstrating the power that they hold