Balloon Hovercraft
⚠️ Safety Warning
Adult supervision needed for hot glue gun. Don't let small children play with uninflated balloons.
All experiments require adult supervision.
Materials You'll Need
Gather these 5 items before starting
💡 Tip: Check off items as you gather them to stay organized!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these 8 steps carefully
Use hot glue to attach the pop-up bottle cap over the center hole of the CD.
Make sure the seal is airtight all the way around.
Close the pop-up cap so no air escapes.
Inflate the balloon and stretch its opening over the bottle cap.
Place the CD on a smooth, flat surface like a table or hard floor.
Open the pop-up cap slightly to let air flow.
Give the CD a gentle push and watch it glide across the surface!
Time how long it hovers and try different balloon sizes.
✅ Remember: Take your time with each step and ask an adult for help if needed!
The Science Behind It 🔬
The balloon hovercraft works on the same principle as a real hovercraft! The air from the balloon flows through the cap and creates a thin cushion of air between the CD and the surface. This air cushion dramatically reduces friction — the force that normally stops objects from sliding. With almost no friction, even a tiny push sends the CD gliding across the surface. Real hovercrafts use powerful fans to create this same air cushion, allowing them to travel over water, ice, and land!