does anyone know of a liquid combustible that would work for a potato cannon? i need something that i can measure so that the potato will fly the same distance each time. also, will tennis balls fly as well as potatos? anyhelp you could give me would be awesome.
2007-01-23 12:16:50 · 4 answers · asked by mr._693 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Other - Science
why not use propane or butane? eg deoderant can
they will be at least as accurate as measuring out some volatile liquid propellant, and considerably less dangerous.
Besides, if you're trying to be exact, the fact you will be using different sized potatoes will make the whole experiment less accurate.
not sure about tennis balls... what about billiard balls...nice and spherical, won't break too easily, uniform shape...steal some from your local pub!
2007-01-23 12:28:30 · answer #1 · answered by Yobbomate 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
One method is to put some dry ice into a soda bottle with some water and screw the top on. Then put that into the tube and the potato in behind it. The pressure will eventually build up enough to rupture the bottle, at which point it will send the potato flying. This method has the disadvantage of being a bit unpredictable, and thus hard to repeat consistently.
Tennis balls will fly, but not as far, because they are lighter and the air resistance tends to slow them after a while.
2007-01-23 20:27:14 · answer #2 · answered by greendragonmaw 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why would you like to know this - if you are old enough to answer this, then you don't need any ideas from here.
If you don't know, perhaps you should ask your parents
YOU ARE GETTING INTO A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION HERE. There are tons of kids that are missing body parts due to irresponsible and dangerous use of firecrackers.
Furthermore, if anyone suggests different agents, they are taking a risk at being held liable for a mishap and being sued!!
Think about it people!!
2007-01-23 20:40:15 · answer #3 · answered by Scarp 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Having seen my share of these made, and having also seen a guy I know rushed to the hospital after an explosion which blinded him and required emergency plastic surgery to save his face, I will help you stay alive longer by not telling you how to do it. Sorry.
24 JAN 07, 0303 hrs, GMT.
2007-01-23 21:58:24 · answer #4 · answered by cdf-rom 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋