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The Alka-Seltzer Challenge

“To invent, you need a good imagination and a pile of junk.”  --Thomas Edison

Objective:  Design a gadget that accomplishes one ( or more!?) of the following tasks:

            Lights a match              Causes something to change colors      Blows out a candle

            Pops a balloon              Lifts a 500 g object at least 5 cm           Turns on a light bulb

Teams:  This challenge may be completed as individuals or in teams of no more than 3

   people.  All team members will receive the same two grades.  Write up grade (test) &

   performance (lab) grade.

Entry Forms:  All entry forms must be completed by Feb.  5^th. No additions can be

  made to teams after that time. 

Competition:  Feb. 20^th at the Seward County Activity Center beginning at 12:30 p.m.

                        Awards ceremony will be Thursday, Feb. 21st, 7:00 p.m.

Requirements:

1. The gadget’s driving force must come from the gas produced from a chemical reaction:  either Alka-Seltzer and water or baking soda and vinegar ( your choice). Your teams must be able to explain the reaction.
2. If your team uses Alka-Seltzer (or some similar product), no more than 1 tablet may be used to run the device. ( Preferably you will use less than 1 tablet.)  If you use baking soda and vinegar, you will be limited to 30 mL(2 T.) baking soda and 240 mL of (1 cup) vinegar.
3. The device must be automatic: that is, it must accomplish its task without your touching it in any way.   Obviously, the device can be handled to get it set up and to add the reactants, snap the lid on, etc.  Then, however, it must be left untouched to perform its task.  So that there is no question about this, there must be a delay of no less than 5 seconds and no more than 30 seconds from the time the device is sealed shut and let go of to the time the task is accomplished.
4. The device must be safe: any potential risk or hazard can cause you device to be disqualified (ex. Your device sends something sharp flying across the test area).
5. The device must be self-supporting and self-contained.  In other words, you should not have to hold something or tape it to the table or ask a teacher for a ringstand or a pile of books, etc.   Also, no splashy messes all over the lab table or the floor!
6. The device should be made with “demonstratability” in mind.  Everything should be clear and visible.  It should be obvious to anyone watching what the device is doing and why. 
7. Creativity is of the essence here; so is visual appeal!  Top priority if making a device that works, but making it look good is also worthwhile.
8. All development and testing must be done by participants.  You are responsible for any equipment and supplies.  Testing , retesting, redesigning and practicing are EXTREMELY IMPORTANT!!!  

Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration – Thomas Edison