How to light a match inside a balloon - Smarter Every Day 36 LASER MONTH

Name: How to light a match inside a balloon - Smarter Every Day 36 LASER MONTH
Uploaded: 2026-04-07T03:19:44.728Z
Duration: 2 min 13 s
Channel: SmarterEveryDay
Description: Detailed notes and chapters for How to light a match inside a balloon - Smarter Every Day 36 LASER MONTH by SmarterEveryDay. 2 chapters covering: Setting up the match inside the balloon, Lighting the match with a laser.

SmarterEveryDay2 minDec 23, 2011

2 chapters

Setting up the match inside the balloon(0'00 → 0'49)
Objective
Light a match inside a balloon without popping it, at least until the fire causes the balloon to pop naturally.
Materials
• Large clear balloon • Match • String
Setup Process
• Roll string around the match • Partially inflate the balloon • Drop the match down into the balloon • Inflate the balloon fully with the match dangling inside
Initial Observation
When air is released from the balloon, it pushes the match out, with the balloon appearing to eat the string.
Lighting the match with a laser(0'49 → 2'13)
Execution
A laser is used to ignite the match inside the balloon without popping the balloon.
Surprising Result
The match successfully ignites and the balloon remains intact despite containing an active flame.
Initial Expectation
Johan expected the match to fall down inside the balloon when hit by the laser.
Scientific Explanation
The balloon is transparent, so the laser light passes through without being absorbed, preventing the balloon material from heating up and popping.

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