31/08/2025
Q & A sponsor for Monday 1st September is DRTCC offering a Prize of 2 double passes for God of Carnage (Wed 10 Sep 2025)
We are looking for the most accurate answer without using the Internet to look anything up. Answers must go on the post associated with this week's question on the DCFM889 page by midnight Thursday. If you won in the last 4 weeks, you are ineligible to enter this week. Clues on the Radio Tue, Wed and Thurs on the brekky show with the winner announced on Friday morning. Wording and spelling may be factors, edited answers will not be considered; the judge's decision is final and there can be only one winner, unless otherwise stated.
Question: Though deceptively simple in concept, this item changed from obscure experiments to a globally recognised object.
What is it?
1st Hint: It was once considered a scientific curiosity rather than something festive.
2nd Hint: It has appeared in both scientific demonstrations and political protests.
3rd Hint: Its invention depended on developments in latex technology and gas behaviour.
4th Hint: Despite being fragile, it’s often symbolic of hope, freedom, and childhood.
5th Hint: There are entire professions and art forms centred around shaping or using this object.
6th Hint: Its rise and fall can be unpredictable—literally and metaphorically.
Answer: Balloon
Winner: Sez Elizabeth and Cath Fidock
Extra Information: Balloons originated in the 19th century as tools for scientific experiments with gases. Eventually, rubber and latex versions became popular at celebrations. Today, balloons are both celebrated and scrutinized due to environmental concerns, and they continue to serve artistic, ceremonial, and recreational purposes.