Stink bomb facts for kids

A stink bomb is a small container that, when broken or activated, lets out a really bad smell. Think of it like a practical joke that uses a terrible odor! One common chemical used to make these smells is called ammonium sulfide. People usually use stink bombs as a funny (or sometimes annoying) prank on others.

What Are Stink Bombs Made Of?

Stink bombs often contain special chemicals that create a very strong and unpleasant smell. The most common ingredient is ammonium sulfide. When this chemical mixes with air or water, it breaks down and releases gases that smell like rotten eggs or sewage.

How Do Stink Bombs Work?

Most stink bombs are designed to be broken or crushed. When you do this, the chemicals inside mix together or react with the air. This reaction quickly produces smelly gases that spread out into the area. The smell can be very strong, but it usually fades away after a while, especially if there's good air circulation.

Common Stink Bomb Chemicals

• Ammonium sulfide: This is a very common chemical in stink bombs. It smells like rotten eggs.
• Thiols: These are a group of chemicals known for their very strong and often unpleasant smells. They are sometimes added to natural gas to help people detect leaks, because natural gas itself has no smell.
• Butyric acid: This chemical smells like vomit or rancid butter. It can be found in some stink bombs.

The History of Stink Bombs

People have probably been trying to make bad smells for pranks for a long time! Modern stink bombs became more common as chemistry developed. They are mostly used for harmless fun, but sometimes they can be used to cause a disturbance.

Safety and Stink Bombs

While stink bombs are usually just for jokes, it's important to remember that they contain chemicals.

• Don't eat or drink them: The chemicals are not safe to swallow.
• Avoid getting them in your eyes or on your skin: They can cause irritation. If this happens, wash the area with lots of water.
• Use them responsibly: Only use them where it's safe and won't cause serious problems or panic. They are meant for lighthearted pranks, not to scare or harm anyone.

Images for kids

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  A prank stink bomb and its packaging

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  Stink bombs