Alpha science classroom: Build a film canister rocket

樊尘
2 min readMay 28, 2022

Kids are all very interested in cool kids’ science experiments, Challenging science experiments can bring special fun and the desire to explore science for kids.

Today Alpha Science Classroom will learn with kids together how to make a simple movie rocket, show kids how it works, show kids the simple principles of chemistry experiments, realize their little dreams of space rockets and open the door to understanding the universe.

Alpha science classroom: What you will need to build a film canister rocket

  • Empty 35mm plastic film canister and lid- 1pc
  • Fizzing antacid tablet (such as Alka-Seltzer — Get this from your parents)- 1pc
  • Water
  • Safety goggles- 1pc

Alpha science classroom: Activity Steps to build a film canister rocket

1.Put on your safety glasses, Half-fill the film canister with water.

2.Divide the Alka-Seltzer tablet into four equal-ish pieces.

*Adult help is necessary for this step.

3.Remove the lid from the film canister and add 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of water into the canister.

4.Add the 1/4 tablet into the canister and snap the cap onto the canister (make sure that it snaps on tightly.)

5.Give the canister a quick shake and set it on the table. About 10 seconds later, you will hear a POP! and the film canister will launch into the air!

*Caution: If it does not launch, wait at least 30 seconds before examining the canister. Usually, the cap is not on tight enough and the build-up of gas leaked out.

Alpha science classroom: Science Behind Build a film canister rocket

Alpha science classroom unlocks the mystery for the children, When Alka-Seltzer and water mixed together will have a chemical reaction that releases carbon dioxide gas bubbles. As this reaction is trapped in the canister, the canister fills with more and more carbon dioxide gas as the tablet is consumed by the water. The buildup of carbon dioxide produces pressure on the inside of the canister until the pressure forces the canister free from the lid. The sudden release of pressure causes the iconic popping sound and the canister to shoot up into the air!

OK, so today’s Alpha Science Classroom is finished, kids can make their own film canister rocket according to the method, learn simple chemistry principles, and discover more interesting science knowledge. Kids must use their imagination to make kids’ science experiments cooler.

Alpha Science Toys has much interesting chemistry set for kids, can choose their favorite chemistry set for kids according to their age, explore more interesting children’s science lab projects, and become the youngest scientist!

--

--