Egg-Citing Physics


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In this demonstration about momentum, use physics to distinguish between a hard-boiled egg and a raw egg without cracking them open. Learners will discover that hard-boiled eggs are much easier to stop spinning because they are solid, whereas the liquid inside the raw egg prevents it from stopping and provides enough drag to start the raw egg spinning again. You can demonstrate that the eggs are really hard-boiled or raw by breaking them open in front of learners. This activity guide includes a helpful video that demonstrates each step of the demonstration. This egg-related activity could be integrated into any Easter or Spring themed programming.

Quick Guide


Preparation Time:
30 to 45 minutes

Learning Time:
Under 5 minutes

Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per group of students

Age Range:
Ages 4 - adult

Resource Types:
Activity, Demonstration

Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)


  • raw egg
  • hard boiled egg

Subjects


  • Physical Sciences
    • Motion and Forces
      • Momentum and Velocity
      • Rotation Motion
    • States of Matter
      • Solids
      • Liquids
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Informal Categories


  • Food and Cooking

Audience


To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other


This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Institute of Physics,