How to Make a Hot Air Balloon

Looking for a fun and simple science experiment to do with kids? You can build a miniature hot air balloon with supplies you probably already have around your house. This fun science project also teaches the concept that hot air takes up more space and is lighter than cooler air.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Light Plastic Bag
• Cardboard box
• Toaster

1. Find a cardboard box, like a cereal box or cracker box, to make a tube the same size as your bag. Make sure the cardboard box is longer than the plastic bag and that it fits over the toaster. Shape the cardboard box into a tube so that the plastic bag will fit over it easily.

2. Place the cardboard tube over the toaster.

3. Put the plastic bag on the cardboard tube.

4. Turn on the toaster.

5. Watch the plastic bag float up into the air.

Tips & Warnings

• The lighter the bag, the better. Try a trash bin liner.

• Only perform this experiment with adult supervision.

• Be careful not to melt the plastic to your toaster or burn yourself.