A Spray Spree

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In this activity, learners explore water pressure by conducting an experiment with a garden hose. Learners build a testing apparatus and create PVC nozzles with different sized holes. During the experiment, learners compare how the diameter of the nozzles affect how far the water sprays. The activity webpage includes a fun how-to video for learners and educators.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$10 - $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Double-ended hose
  • Water hose (garden hose)
  • 3/4″ thread-to-slip PVC adapter
  • Drill
  • Several 3/4
  • 8″-12″ piece of PVC pipe
  • Plastic sawhorse (or table, chair, or stool)
  • Clamp(s)
  • Water source for hose
  • Markers like rocks or bottle caps
  • Tape measurer
  • Paper and pencil

Keywords

Subjects

  • Physical Sciences
    • Motion and Forces
      • Momentum and Velocity
      • Projectile Motion
    • States of Matter
      • Liquids
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data

Informal Categories

  • Outdoor Activity
  • Physical Activity

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • be mobile
  • 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, Children's Museum of Houston, 2010

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