You probably remember the reaction that is caused when a Mentos mint sweet is dropped into a bottle of Coke? Well, EepyBird, made up of Fritz Grobe (the short one) and Stephen Voltz, have been playing with these reactions for a number of years. They have now created their greatest Mento/Coke design: the Coke Zero & Mentos Rocket Car.
The car is powered by 108 bottles of Coke Zero and 648 Mentos mints and has set a new world record for the farthest distance traveled by a Coke-fueled vehicle, covering an impressive 221 feet. The key to harnessing the power from the Coke and mints was to use pistons to create the force needed to drive the bike forward.
The Science Behind the Reaction
The explosive reaction between Mentos and Coke is a result of a physical process rather than a chemical one. When Mentos are dropped into Coke, the gelatin and gum arabic in the Mentos break the surface tension of the liquid, allowing carbon dioxide bubbles to form rapidly. This rapid formation of bubbles creates a geyser-like effect, which EepyBird ingeniously harnessed to power their rocket car.
To maximize the reaction, EepyBird used a precise combination of 108 bottles of Coke Zero and 648 Mentos mints. The pistons in the car were designed to channel the force of the reaction in a controlled manner, propelling the vehicle forward. This innovative use of a well-known reaction showcases the potential for creative engineering solutions using everyday materials.
Engineering the Rocket Car
Creating the Coke Zero & Mentos Rocket Car was no small feat. EepyBird had to carefully design and test various components to ensure the car could withstand the force of the reaction and travel a significant distance. The pistons were a crucial element, as they needed to convert the explosive energy into forward motion efficiently.
The car’s frame was built to be lightweight yet sturdy, allowing it to handle the sudden burst of energy without falling apart. Additionally, the team had to consider the aerodynamics of the vehicle to minimize air resistance and maximize the distance traveled. The result was a sleek, efficient design that set a new world record.
Via EepyBird
This project not only demonstrates the fun and excitement of science but also highlights the importance of creativity and innovation in engineering. By thinking outside the box and experimenting with unconventional materials, EepyBird was able to achieve something truly remarkable. Their work serves as an inspiration to aspiring engineers and scientists, showing that with a little ingenuity, even the most unexpected materials can be used to create groundbreaking inventions.
The Coke Zero & Mentos Rocket Car is a testament to the power of curiosity and experimentation. EepyBird’s dedication to exploring the potential of the Mentos and Coke reaction has led to a world record-breaking achievement that captivates audiences and sparks interest in science and engineering. Whether you’re a seasoned engineer or a curious student, the story of the Coke Zero & Mentos Rocket Car is a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary discoveries come from the simplest of ideas.
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