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How to Build a Homemade Rocket

Building and launching a rocket in your backyard can be an exciting way to teach kids about science. It is, however, generally not recommended that you build propellant or explosive substances at home. You can buy many safely designed model rocket kits at a local hobby or craft store for this activity. But if you're committed to building your own, then a pressure rocket, with no danger of fire or explosion, is a safe and fun alternative.

Things You'll Need

Empty 2-liter plastic bottle
Cork that fits snugly into the bottle
Small nail
Bicycle pump needle
Bicycle pump

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the cork in half (not lengthwise, from top to bottom, but across its middle) so that it's half as long. Poke the nail through it from top to bottom to bore a small hole, and force the bicycle pump needle through the hole so that it sticks out the other side. Be sure the base of the needle, the part that attaches to the pump, is completely outside the cork.
- 2
  Add enough water to the bottle to fill it about a quarter full, and fit the cork with needle protruding down snugly into the mouth of the bottle. The base of the needle and part of the cork should stick out of the top of the bottle. Make sure no air or water can escape around the cork or needle.
- 3
  Clip the bicycle pump to the needle and clamp down. Position the bottle bottom up (you can prop it with rocks or anything convenient) and make sure it is pointed up and away from any people or windows. Start pumping.

Backyard Toys