This is a competition in a large group. The competition is a test of problem solving. The problem is as follows:

You want to attach several strings


At each end, a student is given a helium quality balloon and some masking tape. In the diagram above, there would be 6 contestants for each run trying to find ways to get their baloon to stop closest to the center. Concerns of over inflation, under inflation, etc are present. There are issues with friction and angle of attachement on the string too that all contribute to success.

Here are some discussion questions that follow this experiment:

What can help you win this contest? (list at least three observations)

Is is better to inflate the baloon a lot or a little and why?

Is it better to attach the balloon parallel to the straw or at an angle? Why?

Does the position on the straw matter?

What function is being served by the string?

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