Mini-whoosh bottle – using rockets to understand combustion reactions | Teach with space C01
In this practical investigation, students will perform a combustion reaction using a mixture of alcohol and air in a plastic water bottle. The students will observe a rapid reaction accompanied by a dramatic ‘whoosh’ sound, simulating what happens when fuels are lit during a real rocket launch. Through answering a series of discussion questions, students will first conclude that combustion reactions are exothermic, before identifying the reactants and products of the reaction and considering different fuels. Students will also practice balancing chemical equations.
Learning objectives
- Learn how chemical rocket engines work
- That combustion is an exothermic reaction that requires fuel and an oxidiser
- How to write balanced equations for combustion reactions.
Resource available in:
Subject:
- Chemistry, Physics
Age:
- Age 12-15, Age 12-19, Age 15-19
Time:
- Up to 1 hour
Space theme:
- Human Spaceflight, Rockets & Propulsion
