Rocket Mice
Shoot a rocket high into the air by rapidly squashing a plastic bottle launcher.
This activity may be Messy and Noisy
Shoot a rocket high into the air by rapidly squashing a plastic bottle launcher.
This activity may be Messy and Noisy
What you'll need
Gather your supplies using the list above.
1.
Cut out a template along the dotted lines.
2.
Roll into a cone shape and secure it with tape – this is your rocket.
3.
Decorate your rocket any way you like...
4.
Now pop it on top of your bottle.
5.
Give the sides a big whack and watch your rocket launch!
Can you make your rocket go even higher?
Can you slow down the speed of your rocket?
Can you make your rocket spin as it falls?
What you’re seeing is a combination of 3 forces:
-
air pressure
-
air resistance
-
gravity
Air pressure
Your bottle is full of air, which is elastic and squishy. When you whack the bottle’s sides, the sudden increase in air pressure pushes on the bottom of your rocket, sending it flying high into the air.
Air resistance
This is pushing in the opposite direction to your rocket. Depending on the shape and speed of your rocket, it gets stronger or weaker.
Gravity
This force always pulls downwards, which slows the rocket’s climb but speeds up its descent.
You actually use air pressure all time, like when you squeeze shampoo or ketchup from a plastic bottle. It’s a bit less exciting – unless you’re having a food fight!
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