Explore How Lung Infection Influences Breathing

Here's how.

Active Time

30-45 minutes

Total Project Time

2-3 hours

Key Concepts

The lungs, infection, health

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAcgIqesrqA

Introduction

Have you ever coughed, felt short of breath because you were sick, or felt it was hard work to take a breath? Maybe you have watched someone gasping for air. At times, these events can feel scary! This activity explores how mucus and fluid in the lungs or airways changes our breathing using a simple lung model. It can help you understand why symptoms like coughing and being short of breath happen.

Credits

Sabine De Brabandere, 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

Gelatin powder; if not available, use jelly
Corn syrup
Disposable empty transparent bottle (10-16 fluid ounces) made of hard plastic (such as a sports drink bottle)
Two balloons (8-inch balloons work well)
Utility knife
Scissors
Adult helper
Tools to prepare gelatin:
- Saucepan
- Water
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Small bowl
Optional: A second bottle and two more balloons to make a second identical lung model