Bernoulli Levitator

Add to list Go to activity
Activity link broken? See if it's at the internet archive
Demonstrate the Bernoulli Principle using simple materials on a small or large scale. This resource includes two activities that allow learners to experience the Bernoulli Principle, in which an object is suspended in air by blowing down on it. Use this activity to explain how atomizers work and why windows are sometimes sucked out of their frames as two trains rush past each other.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Demonstration
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • A large wood or plastic thread spool [small snack version]
  • An index card [small snack version]
  • A pushpin [small snack version]
  • Drinking straws (optional) [small snack version]
  • A hair dryer or vacuum-cleaner blower [large snack version]
  • A stiff paper or plastic plate [large snack version]
  • A cardboard box with one side somewhat larger than the plate [large snack version]
  • A pushpin [large snack version]

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Atmosphere
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
      • Potential and Kinetic Energy
    • Motion and Forces
      • Gravity
    • States of Matter
      • Liquids
      • Gases

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

Funding Sources:

  • National Science Foundation
  • California Department of Education
  • NEC Foundation of America