By Mark Cullen, 20/6/25
On Monday 16th June 2025, Woolston Brook School transformed into a hub of creativity and scientific exploration, as students flocked to participate in the much-anticipated Bubble Challenge. This engaging event, carefully crafted as part of the school’s ongoing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) initiative, aimed to ignite curiosity and foster a love of science among young learners.
The Bubble Challenge encouraged students to create the largest soap bubble possible, enticing participants from all age groups to engage in a bit of friendly competition. With an enthusiastic spirit, the students eagerly gathered around, ready to put their scientific skills to the test.
As the children delved into the challenge, they quickly learned that creating colossal bubbles required more than just a bit of soapy water. The emphasis on collaboration was palpable; students exchanged tips and ideas, exploring the fascinating principles of surface tension, viscosity, and air pressure. With each attempt, students employed critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as they tinkered with their bubble recipes to enhance their bubble-making abilities.
Staff explained the importance of balancing ingredients, the role of glycerin, and the effects of environmental conditions on bubble formation. These valuable activities not only enriched the students’ understanding of the scientific concepts at play but also helped them grasp the importance of experimentation and adaptation in the scientific process.
As the competition intensified, learners began to discover their own unique bubble-making techniques. Some students chose to construct elaborate wands with varying shapes and sizes, while others experimented with different bubble solutions, adding a dash of creativity to the task at hand. The joy was infectious, as squeals of excitement erupted whenever a particularly large bubble floated into the air, glistening in the sunlight.
A palpable sense of achievement filled the air, and students left with not only fond memories but also valuable lessons in STEM. Woolston Brook School’s Bubble Challenge exemplifies how educational institutions can combine fun with learning, paving the way for students to develop an enthusiasm for science and its applications in everyday life.
In the spirit of camaraderie and competition, the activity culminated in a small awards ceremony, where the biggest bubbles created were celebrated. Prizes were awarded for creativity, collaboration, and of course, the largest bubble of the day. The event was a resounding success, leaving students, teachers, and parents alike eager for future STEM challenges that continue to inspire curiosity and innovation within the young minds of Woolston Brook School.
Ever wondered what separates a measly miniature from a magnificent, shimmering sphere when it comes to soap bubbles? This week, we dive into the fascinating STEM behind blowing the biggest bubbles, a perfect blend of chemistry, physics, and a little bit of magic!
At its heart, a soap bubble is a thin film of soapy water sandwiched between two layers of air. The secret to its existence lies in the unique properties of soap molecules. These clever molecules are amphiphilic – meaning they have one end that loves water (hydrophilic) and one end that hates it (hydrophobic). When soap is added to water, these molecules arrange themselves at the air-water interface, with their hydrophilic heads in the water and their hydrophobic tails pointing out into the air. This forms a stable, flexible film.
To blow a truly giant bubble, several factors come into play. Firstly, the solution itself is crucial. A good bubble solution isn't just soap and water. Glycerin or corn syrup are often added, acting as humectants. These substances attract and retain water, slowing down evaporation and making the bubble film more durable and less prone to popping. Think of them as tiny microscopic moisturizers for your bubble!
Secondly, surface tension is the unsung hero. Water has a naturally high surface tension, meaning its molecules strongly attract each other. While essential for forming the initial bubble, too much surface tension can make the film rigid and easily broken. Soap reduces the water's surface tension, allowing the film to stretch and expand without rupturing. It’s a delicate balance – enough soap to lower tension, but not so much that the film becomes too weak.
Finally, the method of blowing plays a vital role. A slow, steady breath creates less turbulence, allowing the film to expand evenly. Wind, dust, and even changes in humidity can all contribute to an early demise. Dedicated bubble enthusiasts often use large wands with multiple holes to maximise the surface area of the film as it forms, allowing for greater expansion.
So, the next time you see a colossal bubble drifting through the air, remember it's not just luck! It's a testament to the elegant interplay of molecular forces, surface dynamics, and careful technique – a truly wonderful example of STEM in action!