======Exploding Seed Pod Model======


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**Alternative titles:** Seed Dispersal Balloon Experiment
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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  - Place a balloon over the end of a funnel.
  - Pour parakeet bird seed or confetti into the funnel to fill the balloon.  
  - Tie off the balloon to seal it.  
  - Place butcher paper or a plastic tablecloth on the ground outdoors to catch the seeds.  
  - Hold the balloon outward and pop it with a sharp pencil.  
  - Observe how the seeds scatter and record the distances traveled.  
  - Have students draw and label their results, including measurements of dispersal.  




====Links==== 
Seed Dispersal Experiment #1: Blast Zone - Green Ninja Academy: 
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📄 Seed Dispersal Activity: Build an Exploding Seed Pod - Around the Kampfire Teaching: [[https://aroundthekampfire.com/seed-dispersal-activity-build-exploding-seed-pod-for-kids/]]\\


====Variations====
  * Compare the dispersal distance using different balloon sizes.  
  * Try different types of seeds (without clogging the funnel).  
  * Pop balloons at different angles to simulate pods bursting in different directions.  
  * Have older students calculate the area and perimeter of seed dispersal.



====Safety Precautions====
  * Safety glasses recommended when popping balloons.  
  * Balloons may cause loud pops—warn students in advance.  
  * Use sharp pencils carefully to avoid injuries.  
  * Ensure activity is done outdoors or with a protective covering indoors.  
  * Be cautious with small seeds and balloon pieces around young children (choking hazard).




====Questions to Consider====
  * Why do some plants use exploding seed pods for dispersal? (To spread seeds farther from the parent plant, reducing competition for resources.)  
  * How does this method compare with wind or animal seed dispersal? (Exploding pods send seeds quickly in multiple directions, while wind and animals transport seeds more gradually or selectively.)  
  * What advantage do smaller seeds have in this type of dispersal? (They are lighter and travel farther when launched.)