Submarine: Lift Bag Lander

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In this activity (on page 4), learners create a submarine using a plastic sandwich bag. This is a fun way to learn about buoyancy and how captured gas can cause objects to float.
Note: You will also need access to a tank or swimming pool to watch your submarine dive.
Safety note: Learners will need an adult's help to drill holes in the film canister.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per student
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • Ziploc sandwich bag
  • 35mm film canister and lid
  • Alka Seltzer tablet
  • Pennies
  • A drill

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Oceans and Water
  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Mechanical Engineering
    • Technology
      • Manufacturing
  • Physical Sciences
    • Chemistry
      • Chemical Reactions
    • Motion and Forces
      • Machines
      • Gravity
    • States of Matter
      • Solids
      • Liquids
      • Gases
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Atomic Structure
      • Mass and Weight
      • Volume and Density

Informal Categories

  • Model Building
  • Transportation

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Cameron, James ; Hardy, Kevin

Rights:

  • , UC San Diego, 2013