Fire Proof Balloon

Can’t stand the heat?

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Purpose -

A great way to show the absorption of heat by water. 

Nature - 

Demonstration

Materials - 

A balloon, water, matches or candle

Method - 

Place about 50 ml of water into the balloon, then inflate it the rest of the way with air and tie off. 

Light a match or candle and hold it under the balloon, directly under the puddle of water, you should find that the balloon does not burst.

Safety -

Care with a flame

Explanation -

Water has a very high specific heat.  The water absorbs most of the heat applied to the balloon, stopping the rubber from weakening and letting go.

Notes -

I like to present this by having two balloons already inflated before the demo; one with just air, the other with the water as well. I then show the students the two balloons, and burst the first one with the match. I then try again with the second.