======Alka-Seltzer Rocket====== **Materials: **{{$demo.materials_description}}\\ **Difficulty: **{{$demo.difficulty_description}}\\ **Safety: **{{$demo.safety_description}}\\ \\ **Categories:** {{$demo.categories}} \\ **Alternative titles:** Film Canister Rocket ====Summary==== {{$demo.summary}} ====Procedure==== - Put on safety glasses. - Fill a plastic film canister about one-third full with water. - Break an alka-seltzer tablet in half. - Drop half a tablet into the canister and quickly snap the lid closed. - Flip the canister upside down and place it on its lid in a tray. - Step back and watch as the gas pressure builds until the rocket launches. ====Links==== Make a rocket with water and Alka-Seltzer | STEM activity - Exploration Place: {{youtube>wHUQ3r4rNas?}}\\ Alka Seltzer Film Canister Rockets - Cub Scout Ideas: {{youtube>m5lkJsuJ4ag?}}\\ 📄 Easy Film Canister Rocket - Science Fun for Everyone: [[https://www.sciencefun.org/kidszone/experiments/easy-film-canister-rocket/]]\\ ====Variations==== * Use different amounts of alka-seltzer to compare launch times and heights. * Try other liquids such as vinegar, soda, or juice instead of water. * Test hot water versus cold water to see how temperature affects the reaction. ====Safety Precautions==== * Always wear safety glasses. * Stand back after sealing the canister to avoid being hit. * Conduct the experiment in a clear, open area or use a tray to contain spills. ====Questions to Consider==== * What gas is produced when alka-seltzer reacts with water? (carbon dioxide) * Why does pressure build up inside the canister? (gas is trapped and pushes on the walls until the lid pops off) * How does water temperature affect the reaction speed? (hot water speeds up the reaction, cold water slows it down) * What variables could you change to make the rocket go higher? (amount of alka-seltzer, type of liquid, temperature, or canister size)