Active Time
20-30 minutes
Total Project Time
20-30 minutes
Key Concepts
Newton’s laws of motion, kinetic energy, potential energy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RStgV8mA-gA
Google Classroom

Introduction

Build a balloon-powered car from recycled materials in this fun activity. You can even grab a friend, build two cars, and race them against each other!

Credits

Ben Finio, PhD, Science Buddies
This activity is not appropriate for use as a science fair project. Good science fair projects have a stronger focus on controlling variables, taking accurate measurements, and analyzing data. To find a science fair project that is just right for you, browse our library of over 1,200 Science Fair Project Ideas or use the Topic Selection Wizard to get a personalized project recommendation.
Next: Materials

Materials

Note: other materials can be substituted, like a small cardboard box instead of a plastic bottle.

  • Plastic bottles
  • Plastic bottle caps (4)
  • Flexible straws (3)
  • Wooden skewers (2)
  • Balloon
  • Rubber band
  • Tape
  • Scissors
  • Hobby knife
    Materials to build a balloon car
Next: Instructions

Reviews

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Active Time
20-30 minutes
Total Project Time
20-30 minutes
Key Concepts
Newton’s laws of motion, kinetic energy, potential energy
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