Fireball
Channel: MEL Chemistry
Date: 09/11/2020

What gases can a flying balloon be filled with? Find out about one of them in our experiment!

Magnesium strips are dropped in a flask with a solution of tartaric acid and the flask is covered with a balloon. When the balloon is completely filled with the gas forming in the flask, it is tied with a thread with an attached screw-nut – and the balloon floats! If touched with a burning match, the balloon will explode.

Magnesium and tartaric acid react to release hydrogen gas:
C₄H₆O₆ + Mg → MgC₄H₄O₆ + H₂↑

Hydrogen gas is 15 times lighter than air, and therefore a balloon filled with it can float. It explodes if exposed to flame due to the violent reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, which forms water:

2H₂ + O₂ → 2H₂O

The energy released in this reaction can safely be utilized to power so-called hydrogen vehicles.

Amusing and safe experiments await you in the MEL Chemistry subscription!

Attention! All experiments are performed by professionals. Do not attempt.