This activity was adapted from http://paer.rutgers.edu/pt3/experiment.php?topicid=13&exptid=121 accessed 10.51 am 18/01/2014

To predict what happens to a balloon in a cart when the cart is pushed forward.

A helium-filled balloon is attached to a thread and placed inside a clear plastic box, as shown on the right. The box is on wheels and is able to be pushed forwards and backwards.

Predict what happens to the balloon when the cart is pushed forward.

Explain how you made the prediction and write it down.

Explain how you arrived at this prediction.
Outline all the assumptions you have made.

Now click on the video below to see the experiments.

Click to view the video on the left to see the experiment

1) Was your prediction correct?

2) If the outcome did not match your prediction, should you modify the:

- fundamental ideas? Explain how

- assumptions? Explain why