Definition:
A vacuum is a space completely empty of matter, where there is no air, gas, or any particles.
A vacuum is mostly found in:
• Outer space – Space between planets and stars is a natural vacuum with almost no air or particles.
• Vacuum chambers – Scientists create vacuums in special machines for experiments.
• Vacuum-packed containers – Some food packages remove air to keep food fresh (like vacuum-sealed bags).
What is it?
A vacuum chamber is a sealed container from which air and other gases are removed using a vacuum pump. This creates a low-pressure or near-empty space inside.
How Does It Work?
The chamber is first sealed airtight so air cannot leak in.
A vacuum pump is attached to pull air out of the chamber.
As the pump removes air, the pressure inside drops.
The lower the air pressure, the closer it gets to a vacuum.
What Is It Made Of?
• Strong materials like metal (steel or aluminum) or thick glass.
• Rubber seals or gaskets are used around the doors or joints to stop air from leaking in.
• Sometimes clear glass or plastic is used for viewing.
What Happens Inside a Vacuum Chamber?
• Sound cannot travel, because sound needs air.
• Balloons expand or burst because there’s less pressure outside.
• Boiling point of water drops, so water boils at room temperature.
• Feathers and heavy objects fall at the same speed (like on the Moon).
Where Are Vacuum Chambers Used?
• Science labs – to study space-like conditions or how things behave without air.
• Engineering – to test spacecraft parts, electronics, or materials in space-like pressure.
• Food packaging – vacuum chambers remove air from food packs to keep them fresh.
• Physics experiments – like showing that all objects fall at the same speed in a vacuum.
