How to Blow a Bubble With Bubblegum

Studies show that the average American chews approximately 300 pieces of gum in a year. That's 1000,000 tons of gum. The world record for the largest bubble is 23 inches. There's some interesting science behind the blowing of a bubble and knowing the science could help a person win the biggest bubble blowing contest at camp.

Instructions

1. Purchase bubble gum. It's important to note that bubble gum is different from regular chewing gum because of its base of starches and polymers. Other gums are synthetic while chewing gum has a natural base.

2. Get the gum ready for some serious bubble blowing. Get the sugar out since it inhibits the stretch of the bubble. Some people suggest chewing the gum with water in the mouth or rubbing the gum rapidly under water to remove the sugar.

3. Pop the bubblegum in the mouth to soften and prepare it for the bubble. Serious bubble blowers chew four or five pieces of gum at a time. It's also suggested that peanut butter be added to the gum mixture because it holds the gum together.

4. Flatten the gum against the roof of the mouth with your tongue once the gum is soft.

5. Brace the flattened gum against the back of your top and bottom teeth separated about half an inch. Gently press the tongue against the gum, pressing it through the hole formed by the teeth.

6. Withdraw the tongue and expel breath from the lungs through the bubble. Use your lips to hold the remainder of the bubblegum in the mouth.

Tips & Warnings

• If gum gets caught in your hair, use peanut butter to get it out.