The Gas You Pass

Add to list Go to activity
Activity link broken? See if it's at the internet archive
Although we may not admit it, all humans fart or pass some gas. In this activity, learners make their own model to mimic food passing through intestines and discover what releases gas. Learners mash up a banana and monitor how much gas is released over time using a bottle and balloon. Extension ideas are included to compare fatty foods (like avocados) and foods high in starch and sugar (like fruits) in the model. Step-by-step instructions are included with photos. Activity guide includes a "What's going on?" explanation and connections to relevant science concepts like digestion, bacteria beneficial to our health, and the make-up of gasses in our intestines.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - adult
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • empty soda or water bottle, roughly 500mL
  • banana
  • medium-sized balloon
  • resealable sandwich bag
  • Marker
  • scissors

Keywords

Subjects

  • Life Sciences
    • Diversity of Life
      • Viruses and Bacteria
    • Human Body
      • Digestion
      • Health and Nutrition

Audience

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Source Collection

  • DIY Science Apps

Rights:

  • , The Regents of the University of California, 2015

Funding Source:

  • National Institutes of Health Science Education Partnership Award, 5R25OD010543-02