In honor of AAPI Heritage Month, we are celebrating AAPI scientists and their contributions throughout history! Check out their bios & some fun science experiments to learn more about their work!
Kalpana Chawla: Astrophysicist
Dr. Chawla was an Indian-American astronaut and mechanical engineer. She was the first woman of Indian origin to go to space! She was born in Haryana, India and was fascinated by planes and flying from a very early age. She earned a Bachelor’s of Engineering from Punjab Engineering College before moving to the U.S. to earn two Master’s Degrees. She officially joined the NASA Astronaut Corps in 1995 and took off on her first flight in 1997! She worked on Space Shuttle Columbia, entering space twice, but unfortunately passed away upon her second return to Earth. Since her passing, many awards have been dedicated in her honor to recognize young women scientists.
“The path from dreams to success does exist. May you have the vision to find it, the courage to get on to it, and the perseverance to follow it.”
Alka Seltzer Rocketship
Materials:
Alka Seltzer tablets, water, film canister or similar size container with lid
Time Estimated:
5 min
Directions:
Fill the canister about 2/3 full with water and then drop in 1/4 of an Alka Selzter tablet
Immediately tightly cap the canister- you have to work fast!
Turn the container upside down and place on a flat surface
Stand back and watch your rocket take off!
*Tip: Take this experiment outside for easier clean up
Think Like A Scientist:
What would happen if you changed the amount of water in the canister? Test it out!
What would happen if you changed the amount of Alka Seltzer in the canister?
What would happen if you used a bigger canister? Would the rocket still launch?
How It Works:
Alka Seltzer tablets are made up of two things- citric acid and sodium bicarbonate. When you put a tablet in water, it dissolves and the two chemicals react to produce carbon dioxide gas! This carbon dioxide builds up pressure inside the sealed container and when the pressure builds high enough, it blows the canister into the air! Actual rockets work, like the one Kalpana Chawla went in, work in a similar way. In a rocket, hot gas is created by burning fuel and this gas produces a thrusting force. This makes the rocket take off!
Looking for more fun at home STEM activities for your young scientist? Check out our workbook full of exciting science experiments and empowering activities!
