Which substances do not fit into one state of matter?

In this lesson, we will learn about substances, like sand, that do not fit into one state of matter. We will also learn about the concept of non-Newtonian fluids and investigate their properties.

Make a Self-Inflated Balloon

Blowing up a balloon can be hard work!

Let a chemical reaction do it for you using this cool project that produces a gas to blow up your balloon! 

Supplies Needed: 

1 balloon

Vinegar 

Baking Soda

Funnel 

Tablespoon

Empty plastic water bottle

What to Do:

To start, pour 2 tablespoons of baking soda into the balloon carefully using the funnel. Next, pour 1 cup of vinegar into the empty plastic bottle. Attach the lip of the balloon to the top of the bottle, leaving the bulk of the balloon along with the baking soda hanging down. 

When ready, pick up the balloon so that the baking soda falls into the bottle of vinegar and watch as the balloon fills up with the gas created from the reaction.

Talk to your children about what caused the balloon to fill, and feel free to do it again!

In short, when the vinegar mixes with baking soda, it creates a carbon dioxide gas, which fills the balloon because it has nowhere else to go. Discuss this reaction before trying it again.

When repeating the experiment, be sure to have fresh supplies on hand, as the balloon will need fresh vinegar to produce the same reaction.  

When you have finished the experiment - get your child to complete the observation template with some simple diagrams and sentences to explain what has happened.