After a long day inventing toys in the laboratory, the Zoobers like to entertain themselves with different tricks and stunts. One of the most popular evening events is the balloon laser show. Everyone puts a pillow on the floor and watches my colorful laser show while listening to my favorite music.
Note: You should be able to find a small mirror, about the size of a dental mirror, at most drug stores.
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SAFETY KID SAYS: “Since this experiment requires the use of a laser pointer, be careful not to point the light directly into anyone’s eyes.” |
Materials
Large balloon
1 sheet of cardboard
Small mirror, about the size of a quarter
Tools
Tape
Boom box or stereo with speaker
Laser pointer (see Sources, page 76)
1 Blow up the balloon and tape the tied-off end to the sheet of cardboard so the balloon stands upright.
2 Tape the small mirror near the top of the balloon, so that the reflective surface of the mirror is facing you.
3 Set the balloon on the floor and make the room dark.
4 Place a boom box or stereo speaker close to the balloon and turn on some music.
5 Aim the laser pointer at the mirror so its reflection appears on the ceiling. Make sure that you never point the laser at anyone’s face, since it could damage his or her eyes.
HOW IT WORKS: The patterns are caused by the sound vibrations of the music, which are transmitted to the balloon and mirror.
