Why Do Airships Use Helium Instead of Hydrogen?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do airships use helium instead of hydrogen?

The Big Idea

Hydrogen is lighter than helium. So why do airships use helium? Safety!

Hydrogen Lifts Most

Step one: hydrogen lifts most. Hydrogen is the lightest gas, so it gives the most lift. But it can catch fire.

A Famous Fire

Step two: a famous fire. After a famous airship fire in nineteen thirty-seven, builders switched to helium. Helium lifts slightly less.

Safer Helium

Step three: safer helium. Helium does not burn, so it is much safer. It comes from underground gas deposits and is also used in medical machines and science labs.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Hydrogen lifts the most. It can catch fire. Helium lifts a little less. Helium does not burn.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Hydrogen is also the fuel of the Sun. Hydrogen can catch fire easily. Helium is used in medical machines. Helium is also used in science labs.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Make a pros and cons list for hydrogen and helium. Think about lift and safety. Which one would you use to fill an airship? Explain why to a friend. Keep asking why, and keep exploring!

Outro

Airships switched from hydrogen to helium because helium does not burn, and safety is a big part of engineering. Science is amazing! What will you discover next? Next time you see this in real life, remember what you learned today and smile! Ask a grown-up to help you try the mission, and see what you can find out. Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!