Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

what kind of "testing" can be conducted during this experiment? How can we put more into the experiment other than the obvious baking soda and vinegar blowing up the balloon demonstration?

Hi Brod1,

One idea that comes to mind is to test 1. if this reaction produces carbon dioxide, and 2. if carbon dioxide is heavier than air.

You first would place a small candle in a clear tall glass and light it. Then in a different container such as a empty coffee can you would add 2tbs of baking soda and quickly pour in 3tbs of vinegar. The reaction will release carbon dioxide. After the reaction stops fizzing (~3sec) you can "pour" the carbon dioxide into the glass with the candle in it. The candle should go out proving the reaction created carbon dioxide and that it is heavier than air! As a null hypothesis you can use an empty coffee can to try and "pour" air into the glass with the candle to show that the candle will not go out. I hope this helps!

Good luck!

arasson

Thanks, I like it...... but, I think it may be too much for a 3rd grader to comprehend. Do you think if we tested if the vinegar was "hot or cold", if it makes a difference w/the baking soda - would that make sense?

Hum, What if you measured the size of the balloon from a reaction with LESS vinegar and baking soda and one with MORE baking soda and vinegar. You can make a hypothesis such as : The more reagents you add, the more gas you will release making the balloon larger.

That's a great idea!!