Rockets: Linear Momentum & Collisions
Water Rocket
PIRA Class: 1N22.20

Purpose
To observe conservation of momentum:
(mv)rocket+remaining water = (mv) released air+water

Description
Shoot off a water rocket in or outside of class.
Indoor toy rocket:
1. Fill rocket ~ 1/3rd full with water
2. Slide catch on and pump 20-25 times.
3. Aim and release catch. Repeat without added water for comparison.
Outdoor 2 L soda bottle rocket:
1. Fill rocket ~ 1/3rd full with water
2. Insert stopper (stopper with bike valve) and set rocket up on its fins
3. Using bike pump, pump air into rocket until the rocket's internal pressure forces the stopper loose and rocket "fires" upward.
4. Repeat without added water for comparison.

Equipment
Indoors: Toy water, rocket
Outdoors: 2 liter soda , bottle rocket, bicycle pump
Support Equipment
Water