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General Chemistry Science Fair Project

Film Canister Rockets and Gas Pressure

Easy
Film Canister Rockets and Gas Pressure | Science Fair Projects | STEM Projects
What happens when you trap a gas-producing reaction inside a tiny container? The pressure builds until the container cannot hold it any longer. The lid pops off and the canister launches into the air. You pack the lid of a film canister with baking soda. Then you pour about two teaspoons of vinegar into the canister and snap the lid shut. Turn the canister upside down and set it on the ground. The vinegar reacts with the baking soda and produces carbon dioxide gas. Pressure rises fast. After a few seconds the lid blows off and the canister shoots upward. Do this project outside because the reaction is messy and the canister flies high.

Hypothesis

The hypothesis is that a chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar will create enough pressure to launch a rocket.

Method & Materials

You will pack the lid of a film canister tightly with baking soda, pour vinegar into the canister, put the lid on, turn the canister upside-down, and stand back.
You will need film canisters, baking soda, and vinegar.

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Results

The chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar produces carbon dioxide gas, which builds up pressure until the canister can no longer contain it. The lid pops off, the canister shoots up into the air, and the pressure is released.

Why do this project?

This science project is unique because it uses everyday ingredients to create a fun and exciting reaction.

Also Consider

Experiment variations to consider include using different amounts of baking soda and vinegar, or using a different type of container.

Full project details

Additional information and source material for this project are available below.

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