Air Takes Up Space: The Inverted Glass Experiment (Ms. Sukruta Prashant Kale)

 Air Takes Up Space: The Inverted Glass Experiment

(Ms. Sukruta Prashant Kale)

Introduction

Air is all around us, even though we can't see it. It takes up space and prevents other things from occupying the same space. In this simple experiment, we will demonstrate how air takes up space by using an inverted glass, tissue paper, and a bowl of water. This fun activity helps children understand the concept of air pressure and how air prevents water from entering the glass.

Materials Needed:

• A transparent glass
• A small piece of tissue paper
• A bowl filled with water

Steps for the Experiment:

1. Prepare the Glass: Take a small piece of tissue paper and crumple it into a ball. Place it inside the glass, pressing it to the bottom so it doesn’t fall out.
2. Invert the Glass: Hold the glass upside down, making sure the tissue paper stays inside.
3. Submerge in Water: Slowly lower the inverted glass straight down into the bowl of water until the rim is fully submerged.
4. Observe: After a few seconds, lift the glass out of the water without tilting it. Take out the tissue paper and check if it is dry.
5. Explain the Result: The tissue paper remains dry because air inside the glass takes up space, preventing water from entering.

Fun Science Experiment: Inflating a Balloon with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Introduction

Have you ever seen a balloon inflate without blowing air into it? This exciting experiment uses a simple chemical reaction between baking soda and vinegar to produce carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas, which fills up the balloon. It’s a fun and interactive way for kids to learn about gases and chemical reactions!

Materials Needed:

• A balloon
• Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
• Vinegar (acetic acid)
• A small capsule or container (to hold vinegar)
• A funnel (optional, for easy filling)

Steps for the Experiment:

1. Add Baking Soda: Using a funnel, carefully add a few teaspoons of baking soda into the balloon.
2. Insert Vinegar Capsule: Take a small capsule or container filled with vinegar and place it inside the balloon without spilling.
3. Fasten the Balloon: Stretch the balloon’s opening over the mouth of a bottle or a firm tube, making sure it is tightly sealed.
4. Release the Reaction: Gently squeeze or break open the vinegar capsule inside the balloon. The vinegar will mix with the baking soda, creating a fizzing reaction that produces CO₂ gas.
5. Watch the Balloon Inflate: As CO₂ gas is released, it expands and fills the balloon, making it inflate on its own!