Activity Sheet 3: The Big Bang

Purpose: To construct a direct current circuit.

Materials:
1 balloon, transparent tape, 8 pre-cut strips of aluminum foil cut into ribbons (6" X 1/2"), 1 popsicle stick, 2 batteries, 1 strand of steel wool, 4 paper clips, and 2 rubber bands.

Method:
Follow the four steps to construct a balloon circuit. Use the diagrams to help you build the circuit and make it work.
Step 1: Tape a thin strand of steel wool (as thick as a hair) onto an inflated balloon.



Step 2: Place two aluminum ribbons end to end along the steel strand, with the strips almost touching each other. Tape across the gap. The gap must be as thin (thick) as a dime -- approximately 1 mm.



Step 3. Make a switch from a popsicle stick, tape, and 2 aluminum foil ribbons. Attach aluminum ribbons with rubber bands to both terminals of the batteries. See diagram below.



Step 4: Put the parts of the circuit together by connecting the ribbons with paper clips. Connect the two batteries positive to negative. Close the switch, and observe.


Analysis:
Rank the following statements in the proper order to explain why the balloon pops.