How To Make An Air Cannon

What Is An Air Cannon?

An air cannon creates an air vortex—a doughnut-shaped ring of air that travels through space. While we can’t see the vortex unless it’s filled with particles like smoke, we can observe its effects. The vortex can ruffle hair, move papers, or even blow out candles as it travels a short distance.

DIY Air Cannon Project

As we mentioned up above, this is a super simple science activity the kids can make quickly! Of course, if you want to spend time painting and decorating the bottle it may take a bit longer but that’s okay!

Recommended Grade Level: 3rd-6th

You will need:

• Plastic Bottle
• Balloon
• Paint or Stickers (optional)

Make an Air Cannon

Prepare the Bottle:
Cut off the bottom of the plastic bottle using scissors. The bottle’s tapered end will help focus the air.

Attach the Balloon:
Cut off the balloon’s neck. Stretch the balloon over the bottle’s open bottom to create a taut surface. Make sure it’s secure.

Secure the Balloon (Optional):
If needed, use a rubber band or tape to keep the balloon firmly in place and prevent it from slipping off during use.

Create Your Air Cannon:
Pull back on the balloon’s surface and release it quickly. The motion pushes air out of the bottle in a vortex shape.

How Does an Air Cannon Work?

An air vortex cannon may be simple to make, but it’s packed with fascinating science! Hands-on activities like this are fun and can get students excited about learning.

The Science of Air Movement

Although we can’t see air, we can observe its effects. For example:

• Trees sway when the wind blows.
• A beach ball rolls across the lawn.
• An empty trash can tips over and blows down the street.

Air comprises molecules—oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide—even if we can’t see them. On a windy day, we can feel them moving!

Why Does Air Move?

Air moves because of differences in air pressure. This is caused by temperature changes, with air moving from areas of high pressure to low pressure.

• High pressure to low pressure: This movement creates breezes and even strong winds.
• Weather events: Large pressure differences can result in storms.

What Happens in the Air Cannon?

With the air cannon, we create our own air pressure difference:

1. As the air rushes out, it forms a spinning vortex shaped like a donut. This vortex is stable enough to travel through the air and knock over objects like dominoes or cups.
2. Pulling back the balloon compresses the air inside the bottle.
3. Releasing the balloon forces the air out quickly through the bottle’s opening.

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