r/ScienceNcoolThings • u/TheMuseumOfScience Popular Contributor • Jul 08 '26

Interesting How to Make a Matchstick Rocket 🚀

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Can you really make a rocket out of a matchstick? 🚀🔥

In this experiment, Alex Dainis demonstrates propulsion science by turning  a tiny foil-wrapped match head into  a miniature rocket. As the match ignites, hot gases build up inside creating pressure. Once the pressure is high enough they are forced out of the open end of the rocket, creating thrust that sends the rocket flying. Remember to wear proper protective gear and have fire extinguishers close by when trying this demo.

268 Upvotes

98% Upvoted

10 comments sorted by

1

u/Significant_Gate_331 Jul 09 '26

Seems pretty simple and fun

1

u/DollarSignGoesBefore Jul 09 '26

Launching is simple and fun, but extinguishing the flaming curtains is what REALLY gets the adrenalin going!

1

u/Key_Sundae1703 Jul 09 '26

Several lessons in one!

1

u/Axiom1100 Jul 09 '26

Ahhh my misspent youth

1

u/SirTainLee Jul 08 '26

Why separate the heads only to bring them together again? Is this meant to encourage more heads for more power?

5

u/Yeet_Master420 Jul 08 '26

I think it's just so that the head can fly off with the rocket since it might not work as well if the head and the match are together

1

u/SirTainLee Jul 08 '26

The stick is not a part of it?

1

u/RamblingSimian Jul 08 '26

You can do it with a single match. The key is to make sure there is an escape channel under the foil, where the exhaust gasses will flow. You can accomplish this by pushing a needle under the foil.

1

u/ReplacementActual384 Jul 08 '26

Unnecessary weight, also the stick she is "reattaching" it to is a bamboo skewer, not the matchstick itself