Oxidation-Reduction Reaction
with a Potato Launcher
by Finis Watt
April 25, 2008
Mr. Finis Watt’s Applied Chemistry students discussed several experiments they would like to do before classes dismissed in May. One of the ideas discussed was a spud launcher. All of the students liked this idea and construction of the launchers began on April 21, 2008.
The launchers were constructed from PVC pipe and multi-purpose cement for PVC and CPVC pipe and fittings. The week prior to building the launchers was spent researching and calculating independent, dependent, and constant variables on worksheets and handouts. Class discussion involved the materials needed to complete and carry out the experiment.
The class of eleven students include: Megan W., Brooke S., Jesse H., Will A., Tamara M., Heather S., Brian K., Marty F., Ariel B., Samantha S., and J.C. E. The students split up into four teams of two and one team of three.
On Wednesday April 23, the students went outside by the softball field to use the potato launchers. Two of the launchers were used and launched four times. The variable that the class changed was the amount of hair spray used as fuel. The first launch flew the distance of 175’, the second 130’, the third 167’, and the fourth 170’.
The class really enjoyed this activity and the process of doing it. The students hope to continue this project in the future.
