Question

you can create something similar to a jet using a straw and a balloon.
a. attach balloon to the straw with masking tape
b. attach a second straw vertical to the first one using a pin.
c. blow up the balloon and then release it.

1. what happens to the straw as the air goes out of the balloon?____
2. if you bend the straw to the right, the straw spins which direction?____
3. if you bend the straw to the left, the straw spins which direction?____
4. what can you do to slow the spin of the straw?____

Explanation:

1. When the air goes out of the balloon, it creates a force (similar to jet - propulsion). According to Newton's third law of motion (action - reaction), the straw will spin.
2. If the straw is bent to the right, as the air is expelled, the reaction force will cause the straw to spin in the left - hand direction. This is because the direction of the expelled air (action) has an opposite reaction on the straw.
3. If the straw is bent to the left, the reaction force from the expelled air will make the straw spin in the right - hand direction.
4. To slow the spin of the straw, you can reduce the force of the air expelled. This can be done by partially blocking the opening of the balloon (so less air comes out with less force) or using a smaller balloon (less air volume to expel with less force).

Answer:

1. The straw spins.
2. The straw spins to the left.
3. The straw spins to the right.
4. Partially block the balloon opening or use a smaller balloon.