"Alka Salza Rockets" Return to list of pracs

Aim: This is an activity to construct a rocket using Alka Salza tablets.

Equipment: The equipment includes...  

• Alka Salza tablets;
• film canisters;
• water.

Method: Stick an Alka Salza tablet to the inside cap of a film canister. Half fill the canister and place the cap on turn upside down onto concrete! The small explosion will propel the canister about 2 metres upwards.

Background knowledge: The reaction releases carbon dioxide gas to a point when the lid can no longer hold the pressure build up. The canister base should then explode off.