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How to Build a Tiny Hot Air Ballon

Hot air balloons were used during the early days of aviation and work as the warmer air rises above the cooler air. There are many smaller versions of a hot air balloon, for example festival lanterns which are sent up during a variety of celebrations throughout the world. Making a small hot air balloon at home is an educational project for children and can even be used for a science fair project.

Things You'll Need

Thin plastic bag
Aluminium foil
Candles
Straws
Measuring tape
Scissors
Sticky tape
Matches

Instructions

- 1
  Stretch the end of the plastic bag gently and measure the distance between the two edges and multiply by 0.7. The best bags to use are made from very thin plastic.
- 2
  Cut the bendy ends off the straws and make a small cut lengthways at each end so the straw fit together easier.
- 3
  Attach the straws until they are the length calculated in Step 1. Secure all the straws in place with tape and make a second identical structure.
- 4
  Tape the straw lengths together to make an "X" and tape all the ends of the cross to the edge of the plastic bag so it forms a frame to keep the balloon open.
- 5
  Cut out a square of aluminum foil. This should be between 2 and 4 inches on each side.
- 6
  Melt the bottom of the candle and then heat the bottom of the aluminium foil so each candle is securely fastened to the foil. Arrange three or four candles neatly in the middle of the foil, but ensure none are touching each other. Birthday candles are ideal for this task.
- 7
  Attach the aluminium foil to the straw "X" using sticky tape. Fix it on top of the cross so the candle flames will heat the air inside the balloon. Make sure the candles are arranged so they do not touch the straws.
- 8
  Hold the balloon open, light the candles and allow the bag to fill with hot air before releasing.

Educational Toys