Bubble in a Bubble

Materials:

commercial bubble solution and wand

3-foot piece of string

3 plastic soda straws

Future Quicktime Movie and photos of the demo to go here!

Procedure:

Puff method:

Form a 3- to 5-inch bubble using the commercial bubble solution and either hold it on your wand or release it so it gently floats in front of your face. When the bubble is 2 to 3 inches from your face and somewhat above you, blow a short blast of air into the side of the bubble by making a "t" sound -- not a "p" sound -- with your tongue (making a "p" sound is usually too forceful and lacks control). To increase the force, simply close your mouth more. Practice by holding your hand in front of your mouth and making both sounds to feel the difference. I have suggested that you have the bubble somewhat above you so you are blowing into the thicker portion of the bubble. (The bubble tends to thin at the top as the solution runs and collects at the base.)

Straw method:

Dip the straw in solution and blow a few small bubbles. The first few you blow will not be useful as the bubble wall will be too thick and will more readily join with the larger bubble.

Now, form a large bubble with a wand, quickly insert the straw into the large bubble and blow gently, forming a bubble inside a bubble.

Wand method:

Make a straw bubble frame using two straws and a piece of string. Blow a small bubble out of the frame and quickly surround it with a larger bubble made from the remaining film in the frame.

Create your own method:

Challenge your students to find other ways to get a small bubble inside a larger bubble. Stand back and let the investigations begin!

Source:

Bubbleology by Ron Bonnstetter