To enhance science literacy and understanding of science concepts, Nira Nurwulandari, M.Pd., a lecturer from the Physics Education Study Program, conducted a Community Service activity on November 19, 2025, at SMP Putri Abi Ummi Boyolali, focusing on the topic of Air Pressure. The learning activities were carried out through a series of simple experiments, where the students were invited to directly observe various air pressure phenomena commonly encountered in everyday life.

The activity was conducted in an interactive and enthusiastic atmosphere. The participating students actively engaged in discussions, observed demonstrations, and tried performing the experiments themselves under the guidance of the instructor.

1. Balloon Expanding Inside a Closed Bottle

In the first experiment, the students observed how a balloon could expand inside a closed bottle containing a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. The chemical reaction between these two substances produces carbon dioxide gas, which increases the pressure inside the bottle and causes the balloon to gradually expand. This experiment clearly demonstrated how gas pressure (CO₂) can exert force on objects.

2. Water Does Not Spill Even When the Bottle Is Turned Upside Down

The second experiment demonstrated that when a bottle filled with water is covered with tissue or paper and then turned upside down, the water does not spill out. This phenomenon occurs because the external air pressure is greater than the pressure exerted by the water inside the bottle, allowing the paper to hold the water in place even when the bottle is inverted.

3. Water Entering a Glass with a Burning Candle

The final experiment involved lighting a candle inside a glass, which was then placed upside down on a plate filled with water. When the flame went out and the air inside the glass cooled, the air pressure inside the glass decreased. As a result, the higher external air pressure pushed the water into the glass. The students were very enthusiastic as they observed the change in water volume during the experiment.

Nira Nurwulandari, M.Pd., emphasized that experiment-based learning provides concrete experiences for students. When students directly observe phenomena, they can more easily understand physics concepts that are often considered abstract.