Hovercraft Science

One of the more fun science project Lizzy did as the Queen of Science was building a hovercraft with a CD. It is a fun and easy way to teach students about physics. I see no conflicts between my faith in God and my knowledge of science. God is the creator of the universe; my role is to learn as much about it as possible.

Newton’s Third Law of Motion

Hovercrafts work on the principle of Newton’s Third Law of Motion, which describes what happens to a body when it exerts a force on another body. This law states that there is an equal and opposite reaction for every action. In other words, the bodies apply forces on each other that are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction.

An inflated balloon holds pressurized gas. When the balloon’s mouth is released, the air flows out freely with pressure, creating a cushion of air beneath the CD. By placing a water bottle cap over the center hole of the CD, the opening can be restricted, causing the balloon to push its air out more slowly.

The thin layer of air cushion created underneath the CD makes it move further and faster by reducing the friction between the ground and the hovercraft.

Materials

• Hot glue gun
• Plastic pullout water bottle cap
• CD
• Balloon

Eight Easy Steps

1. Apply the hot glue on the ring around a plastic pullout bottle cap.
2. Quickly align the bottle cap to the center of the CD and  firmly press the cap against the CD.
3. Close the bottle cap.
4. Inflate the balloon.
5. Stretch the mouth of the balloon over the bottle cap.
6. Place the hovercraft on a flat surface and open the bottle cap.
7. Move the hovercraft. It should take very little force. 
8. When the balloon deflates, inflate it again to repeat the process.

The Next Best Thing

For Lizzy and I, this project led to the next logical step, creating a full-size hovercraft using an old leaf blower that I had around the house. She took it to school and the principal allowed the students to lineup for rides down the hallway.

Delighting in science teaches about our world. Building a hovercraft can provide an appreciation for the creator, maker of heaven and earth.

“Great are the works of the Lord; They are studied by all who delight in them.”

Psalm 111:2, NASB

Copyright © 2023 Chuck Locklear

Also, see Science Can Be Fun.