Search Results

This is written as a static display, but can easily be adapted to a hands-on experiment for learners to conduct.

This design challenge is an open-ended exploration of linkages, a group of parts connected by hinges, and the types of motion they can create.

In this demonstration, learners discover that nanoparticles behave differently, in part because they have a high surface area to volume ratio.

In this activity, learners use multiple thermometers, placed at different angles, and a lamp to investigate why some places on Earth's surface are much hotter than others.

In this activity, learners discover that the way a material behaves on the macroscale is affected by its structure on the nanoscale.

Learners are given mysterious white powders and have to determine their identity with chemical tests.

In this activity, learners explore how nanotechnology is being used to create new types of protective fabrics.

Learners experiment with a 2-liter plastic bottle containing water and four “divers." The divers consist of open, transparent containers with the opening points downward.

In this activity, learners explore how nanosized structures can create brilliant color.

In this activity/demo about piezoelectricity, learners discover how some crystals produce electricity when squeezed.

In this activity/demo, learners discover how liquid nitrogen cools a creamy mixture at such a rapid rate that it precipitates super fine grained (nano) ice cream.

In this activity, learners use chemistry to “self-assemble” gummy shapes. Learners discover that self-assembly is a process by which molecules and cells form themselves into functional structures.

In this activity, learners investigate how inkjet printers produce tiny, precise drops of ink.

In this activity, learners use pop-beads to understand the characteristics and properties of polymer chains.

If you have access to a copper metal tube, this activity does a great job demonstrating what happens to matter when it's heated or cooled. This activity requires some lab equipment.

In this activity (on pages 4-5), learners make fake snow by adding water to the super-absorbant chemical from diapers, sodium polyacrylate.

In this demonstration, learners explore the thermal properties of rubber. Learners investigate whether a rubber band contracts or expands when heated.

In this activity (pages 3-4), learners investigate the properties of smart materials, which are materials that respond to things that happen around them.

Make your own speaker with a magnet, wire, and paper cup! If you have a radio with a headphone plug and an old pair of headphones, this is a great tinkering activity.

In this activity, learners will experiment with water- and air-filled balloons as a way of dampening sound before it reaches their ears.