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Can a Balloon Fly Without Helium?

Published in Science 1 min read

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.

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