Hooked on Science: Air takes up space

Air is everywhere, but because it's transparent how do we really know it's there? Here's an experiment that will prove air is all around us and one you can try at Science Day 2008. This experiment will help set a world record today at Science Day 2008.

Materials

* Balloon

Instructions

STEP 1: Stretch the balloon in all directions.

STEP 2: Place the open end of the balloon near your mouth.

STEP 3: Inflate the balloon by using the air in your lungs.

Explanation

This experiment proves air takes up space. Air is transparent, but we know it's there when the wind blows or by inflating a balloon.

Jason Lindsey is a Science Outreach Educator with Hooked on Science. Check out his website "Hooked On Science" at hookedonscience.org for webcasts and experiments that might get you hooked on science. Send him your science questions at jlindsey@hookedonscience.org. More science experiments can be found at www.semissourian.com.