2025 STEAM EXPO

The Judges Committee has awarded this submission Excellence in Experimental Science

PROJECT SUMMARY

In this project, we tested two different chemical reactions to launch small rockets and see which one worked better. First, we used mini M&M tubes with Alka-Seltzer and water. Later, we experimented with a bigger plastic bottle, baking soda, citric acid, and water. We compared the reactions and how high each rocket flew.

WHY?

We chose this project because we’re really interested in rockets, explosions, and how chemical reactions create force. We also wanted to challenge ourselves to build something that actually flies and test our own hypothesis using real experiments.

HOW?

First, we built small rockets using empty M&M tubes. We filled them with Alka-Seltzer and water, and they popped and launched, which was super fun. But we wanted more power! So next, we used a plastic bottle with a cork, added baking soda and citric acid (dissolved in water), and sealed it quickly. We had to try many times to get the mix and timing right. Sometimes it didn’t launch, or the cork came off too early. But eventually it worked!

WHAT?

We learned that bigger containers can hold more gas pressure, which makes the rocket go higher. We also found out that citric acid and baking soda make a strong reaction when mixed. It was exciting to see smoke and feel the power of the launch. We also discovered that science means failing a lot, but when you finally get it right, it’s totally worth it.

SO WHAT?

This project helped us understand chemical reactions, gas buildup, and Newton’s laws in a hands-on way. It showed that testing, patience, and small changes can lead to big results. We proved our hypothesis: the bigger bottle and reaction made the rocket fly much higher and even created a cool smoke effect!

WHAT'S NEXT?

Next time, we’d like to try building a real rocket shape with fins and use different acids to compare which reaction is stronger. We could also measure how high each rocket goes using a ruler or phone app. Maybe one day we can launch something even bigger!

REFERENCES & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Thanks to our teacher for helping us stay safe and letting us try so many times! All the ideas and testing came from our team.

JUDGES FEEDBACK

What a fun project! I really enjoyed watching the rocket launching for both methods. The first video was definitely better! I think next time you could highlight better what method you used for each. This a great way of showing how fun science and chemical reactions can be fun! Really well done.

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