Balloon Powered Vehicle

It is time to race! Up to twenty teams of two will be able to construct a balloon-powered vehicle that can carry a ping pong ball along a taut fishing line. You must sign up ahead of time for this contest at the Info booth to the right at the entrance to the park.
Objective:
Carry a ping pong ball to the other end of a 10-m fishing line in the shortest time using only the power of an inflated balloon.

Supplies:
  1. One 8-inch round balloon
  2. One plastic drinking straw
  3. Two paper clips
  4. One ping pong ball
  5. 30 cm Magic Transparent Tape
  6. Scissors

Rules:

  1. Every participant group will be given a full set of supplies. You are only allowed to use the materials given. You are not required to use all the materials provided.
  2. The team will have 20 minutes to construct its balloon-powered vehicle.
  3. The balloon and ping pong ball must travel together. The ping pong ball can not be altered in any way.
  4. The vehicle must travel along the 10-m fishing line. The line will not be untied, so you must be able to attach and detach your vehicle easily.
  5. There will be a practice area with a shorter piece of fishing line to test your vehicle. You will only be allowed to practice during your 20 minute construction time, you may not practice while you wait for your turn.
  6. There will be a middle school, and a high school division. First, second, and third places will be awarded.

Time:

TBA here soon

Location:

Picnic Pavilion

Posted 10/23/2009