Kool Aid Squeeze Rocket Launcher

1. As everyone knows, science is much more fun and productive when conducted on a sugar high. So to start this experiment guzzle down the Kool Aid from your bottle. If you are making more than one launcher, drink those, too!
2. Avoid making a sticky, rocket launcher mess! Rinse and dry your bottles before you move on.
3. Push the smaller straw into the opening of the bottle. The straw should fit snugly in the hole at the top of the bottle. Use modeling clay to seal any possible leaks between the straw and the hole in the bottle. The clay will also make the straw more stable and less likely to wobble.
4. Push one end of the bigger straw into another piece of modeling clay. This "plug" will seal the end of the straw. Cover the plugged end with something soft like a Styrofoam packing peanut to keep the straw rocket from hurting anyone in case they accidentally get hit.
5. It's time to launch... Place the larger straw over the smaller straw. Ready, aim... wait! Take a look around. Is everyone paying attention? If they aren't watching with Cape Canaveral-like anticipation, make sure they know what is about to take place.
6. Now that everyone is aware of your rocket launching intentions, start the countdown. 3, 2, 1... give your bottle a giant squeeze and... blast off! The larger straw launches off the smaller straw and the room erupts in a chorus of oohs & ahhhs!

How does it work?

While you're having fun launching straws, you're actually learning about Newton's Third Law of Motion. According to Newton, for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. As you squeeze the bottle, air is forced out of the straw and pushes against the clay plug in the larger straw. The resulting force causes the straw to "launch" through the air. Pretty simple, right? The power of air is amazing to witness.

Additional Info

Be careful! Never point the straw rocket at anyone. The goal here is to launch the rocket up in the air (not at someone). Be sure to cover the plugged end of the straw with something soft and round to protect someone from accidentally getting hurt by a sharp edge. Be creative! Once you've mastered the simple straw rocket, challenge your friends to a straw rocket design contest. Add a nose cone, some fins, a few decorations, and don't forget to name your straw rocket!