No, a balloon cannot fly without helium or a similar gas that is lighter than air.
Here's why:
- Buoyancy: Balloons float because they are filled with a gas that is less dense than the surrounding air. This difference in density creates an upward force called buoyancy.
- Helium: Helium is a very light gas, making it ideal for filling balloons.
- Other Gases: While helium is the most common, other lighter-than-air gases like hydrogen can also be used, though hydrogen is flammable and therefore less safe.
- Air: Regular air is denser than helium, so a balloon filled with air will not float.
In summary, a balloon needs a lighter-than-air gas to float. Without helium or a similar gas, the balloon will simply sink to the ground.