SPM Physics: AHA! Balloon Car – Newton’s Third Law in Motion

 

Why does a balloon car move forward when air is released?

• Air is released backward at high velocity.

• This produces backward momentum.

• By Newton’s Third Law, an equal and opposite reaction force pushes the car forward.

• On a smooth surface (low friction), the car moves easily.

Exam tip: Don’t jump straight to “Newton’s Third Law.” Write the full chain:

1️⃣ Air released at high velocity

2️⃣ Backward momentum produced

3️⃣ Equal and opposite reaction force

4️⃣ Car moves forward

That’s how you secure all 4 marks.

AHA! Air goes back, car goes front. Not by sight, but by INSIGHT!

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