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How to Increase the Height of a Bottle Rocket With the Number of Fins

The height a bottle rocket can reach is the ultimate goal against which a rocket's effectiveness is measured. Since a rocket will only be in the air for a short time, and accelerating for a much shorter time, stability is an important factor in keeping the force of the acceleration moving the rocket upward instead of spinning it out of control. Small protrusions meant to direct airflow called fins keep a rocket on its proper course.

Things You'll Need

Bottle rocket kit, fins included

Instructions

- 1
  Choose a rocket made of a strong, thick plastic or a treated balsa wood. When shaken lightly while handling, no part of the rocket should flex under such minimal force.
- 2
  Design or use a rocket that weighs between 80 and 200 g. A lighter rocket will likely be carried and redirected by wind forces, but a heavier rocket will not be propelled easily enough by the launch mechanism. When your rocket is in this range, cut or use fins that are between 4 and 10 g apiece, and limit the number of fins to three or four. More fins can prevent the rocket from rotating in the direction of the wind that is felt at its "front," which is essential to stability.
- 3
  Use an all-purpose glue to affix your fins at the bottom of your rocket design; heavier glues and tape will add too much weight, and will increase the surface area of the rocket and slow it down. Fins should have a uniform and constant distance between them and they should be in one line along the bottom edge of the rocket.

Educational Toys