The hypothesis is that the air flowing upward hits the bottom of the ball and slows down, generating a region of higher pressure that holds the ball up against the pull of gravity.

You will need a blower, a spherical balloon or table tennis ball, and tissue paper. You will balance the ball above the airstream, pull it slowly out of the flow, and tilt the airstream to one side.

You will need a hair dryer, a balloon or table tennis ball, and tissue paper.

The experiment shows that when the ball is suspended in the airstream, the air flowing upward hits the bottom of the ball and slows down, generating a region of higher pressure. This high-pressure region of air under the ball holds the ball up against the pull of gravity. When you pull the ball partially out of the airstream, the air flows around the curve of the ball that is nearest the center of the airstream, creating an inward force on the ball.

This experiment is interesting and unique because it demonstrates the Bernoulli principle, which explains why air flowing over a surface in an arc exerts less pressure on that surface. It also shows how air follows the surface of a sphere and why air pressure on the ball decreases, allowing the normal atmospheric pressure of the calm air on the other side of the ball to push the ball back into the airstream.

Experiment variations to consider include using a vacuum cleaner instead of a blower, and using a light-weight vinyl beach ball instead of a balloon or table tennis ball. Another variation is to move the blower and the ball toward a wall (try the corner of a room) and observe the great increase in height of the suspended ball.

Hey there! Here are some awesome videos about this science project that we think you'll really like. They're not only super fun, but they'll also help you learn more about the science behind the project. So sit back, relax, and get ready to have some fun!!