Science Festival: experiments

How to make your own rain gauge Most computers will open PDF documents automatically, but you may need Adobe Reader Download the reader here

The Manchester Science Festival (24 Oct - 01 Nov 2009) is a great opportunity make things go 'whizz' and 'bang!' in the name of science.

There are more than 150 organised events at venues across the city investigating a host of phenomena from the science of bubbles to Walking with Robots.

There's also a chance to take part in a weather experiment to too see if it really does rain more at weekends in Manchester by making your own rain gauge.

Knitting patterns for The Big Microbe Knit Most computers will open PDF documents automatically, but you may need Adobe Reader Download the reader here

And if you're a keen knitter, you can join in with The Big Microbe Knit, which gives you the chance to make your own cuddly version of Tuberculosis, Cholera, Salmonella, the common cold, Swine Flu and Penicillium!

MSF demonstrators will also taking experiments out onto the streets with a number of 'science busking' experiments.

BBC Manchester has teamed up with the Festival to help you have a go at five of these experiments using everyday items you might have at home.

Download these experiment sheets or watch the videos:

1. Amazing Marshmallows

Experiment sheet #1: Amazing Marshmallows Most computers will open PDF documents automatically, but you may need Adobe Reader Download the reader here

Watch marshmallows magically expand and then shrink in this demonstration of the principle of air pressure.

You will need: small marshmallows; a wine bottle; a wine-saver vacuum pump; stopper.

2. Straw Oboes

Experiment sheet #2: Straw Oboes Most computers will open PDF documents automatically, but you may need Adobe Reader Download the reader here

Make a musical instrument out of a plastic straw and explore the science of sound.

You will need: straws; scissors.

3. Fizz Rocket

Experiment sheet #3: Fizz Rocket Most computers will open PDF documents automatically, but you may need Adobe Reader Download the reader here

Surprise your friends and family by making a film canister fire into the air!

You will need: a small film canister; a fizzy tablet (like an effervescent vitamin tablet); water.

4. Secret Sounds of the Oven Shelf

Experiment sheet #4: Secret Sounds of the Oven Shelf Most computers will open PDF documents automatically, but you may need Adobe Reader Download the reader here

Discover the low-frequency sounds of metal objects in your kitchen such as an oven shelf.

You will need; string; fork; an oven shelf.

5. Cackling Cups

Experiment sheet #5: Cackling Cups Most computers will open PDF documents automatically, but you may need Adobe Reader Download the reader here

Celebrate Hallowe'en by making paper cups that cackle like witches. Explores the different sounds made by different vibrations.

You will need: paper cup; Blu-tak; string; a pencil; a damp cloth.

Manchester Science Festival runs from 24 October - 01 November 2009.