Make a Comeback Can
Source Institutions
-
Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
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Learners build a can that automatically returns after being rolled away. The can has a rubber band inside that stores energy as the can rolls one direction. The stored energy in the rubber band causes the can to roll back in the opposite direction. Use this activity to illustrate kinetic and potential energy.
- Under 5 minutes
- 5 to 10 minutes
- $1 - $5 per student
- Ages 8 - 14
- Activity
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per student)
- Empty can with a lid (like a coffee, oatmeal or paint can)
- Twist tie or short pipe cleaner
- Hex nut
- Large rubber band
- Scissors
Subjects
- Physical Sciences
- Energy
- Potential and Kinetic Energy
- Motion and Forces
- Energy
- The Nature of Science
- The Scientific Process
- Conducting Investigations
- The Scientific Process
Informal Categories
- Toys
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:
- All Rights Reserved, Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, ©2012
