CD Hovercraft
This hovercraft craft is a great way create a bit of “magic” that can also teach kids how the distribution of air reduces friction.
Old CD
Balloon
Button
Small spool (large enough not to fall through the CD hole)
Hot glue
Glue the spool to the CD, aligning the holes of the two objects. Parents, please help children with the application of the hot glue.
Now glue the button on top of the spool, also aligning the holes.
Next, inflate the balloon and twist the end of the balloon multiple times. Finally, stretch the lip of the balloon over the button and spool, and place the CD with balloon attached to a flat surface.
Release the balloon and let it expel the air inside, making the hovercraft float!
This activity can help to explain friction and air pressure. The alignment of the holes allows a bit of air to remain between the table and the bottom of the CD. This allows for less friction between the table and CD allowing the balloon to move around the table like a hovercraft.
This is very similar to the concept of an air hockey table. Hey, maybe you can find a way to create your own air hockey table. Be sure to fill me in if you do!