Homemade Rocket

Film canisters transform into rockets with the combination of two household ingredients.

Creating a homemade rocket provides a unique way to teach elementary school children what happens during a chemical reaction. The combination of vinegar and baking soda produces carbon dioxide gas that can easily power a small, homemade rocket.

Things You'll Need

• Film canisters
• Baking soda
• Vinegar

Instructions

1. Remove the lid from the empty film canister.

2. Pack the lid tightly with baking soda.

3. Measure two teaspoons of vinegar and add to the film canister.

4. Place the lid on the film canister and snap it closed.

5. Turn the canister over and place it lid-side down on the ground.

6. Step back and watch. The canister should shoot into the air after a few seconds. If the rocket does not launch into the air, try a different canister with a tighter lid.

Tips & Warnings

• Many film processors give away film canisters for free.

• The film canister can be decorated with paint, markers and glitter. Paper cones and triangles can be glued to the canister to give it a traditional rocket shape. Experiment with different designs to see if they affect the flight of the canister rocket.

• A baking soda/vinegar rocket makes a mess. In addition, the rocket will fly uncontrollably into the air. This project is best performed outdoors.

References

• All Science Fair Projects: Poppin' Rockets