Rocket bike

Back to 1N - Linear Momentum and Collisions
PIRA index: 1N22.10

Description

A compressed gas cylinder (argon) is attached to a tricycle. When the gas is released, it propels the tricycle forwards. Can also be a fire extinguisher.

Equipment

• Rocket bike (with argon canister attached)
• helmet
• adjustable spanner/wrench

Instructions

Have a demonstrator sit on the bike with his/her feet off the pedals, preferably placed on the frame. The bike should be located at the edge of a room/area. The professor should then open the valve on the argon bottle. Once the bike has been propelled far enough, a second person should close the valve.

Keywords

rocket, bike, bicycle, tricycle, argon, gas, fire extinguisher

Images & Movies

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  Figure1