Big Bang Activity
Introduction: This activity will be used in an effort to explain the Big Bang Theory by comparing it to an
expanding balloon.
Materials:
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Balloon
Marker
Clothespin or paper clip or small clamp (something to pinch balloon closed)
Measuring tape (needs to be pliable to measure around balloon
o You can use string and a ruler instead to measure the distance between the points on
the balloon if needed.
Procedure:
1. Blow some air into the balloon to partially inflate it.
2. Fold/twist the balloon shut (do not tie it) and clamp it with a clothespin or other device to keep
the air from escaping.
3. Draw 6 dots on the balloon with a marker, making sure to space them out as evenly as possible.
4. Label the dots A through F.
5. Using the tape measure, or string and ruler, measure the distance in mm from Dot A to each of
the other dots.
6. Record your measurements in the table under Initial Measurements.
7. Remove the clothespin from the balloon, inflate it a bit more and then clamp it shut again.
8. Observe what happens to the dots on the balloon.
9. Measure the distances from Dot A to each of the other dots and record your data in the table
under Trial 1.
10. Repeat steps 7-9 twice more and record the data under Trial 2 and then Trial 3.
11. Answer the questions below based on your model, data and observations.
Data Table
Balloon
Points
A to A
A to B
A to C
A to D
A to E
A to F
Initial
Measurement
(in millimeters
– mm)
Trial 1
Trial 2
Trial 3
(in millimeters
– mm)
(in millimeters
– mm)
(in millimeters
– mm)
Questions:
1. In your model, what distance changed the most? The least?
2. If each dot represents a galaxy, describe how they move in relation to one another.
3. Based on your model, is the universe expanding, contracting, or staying the same?
4. Based on your model, how does the distance between the objects affect how quickly they move
away from each other?
5. What parts of the Big Bang Theory does your model allow you to verify?
6. How is your model similar to reality? How is it different?
7. What is an advantage of using your model to study the Big Bang Theory? What is a
disadvantage?
8. Does your model prove the Big Bang Theory? Explain your reasoning.
9. What alternative theories could explain what you modeled?