American Physical Society
Glow in the Dark
Source Institutions
Learners experiment to see which colors of light will cause a phosphorescent (glow-in-the-dark) material to glow.
How Thick is Your Hair?
Source Institutions
In this activity on page 13 of the PDF, learners use a laser pointer (with known wavelength of light) to measure the thickness of a human hair.
Spots, Lines and Lasers
Source Institutions
Learners shine the light of a laser pointer through sheets of fabric that all have a different number of threads per inch.
Physics by the Fire: Matchstick Rocket
Source Institutions
Learners build a small rocket using a matchstick and a piece of aluminum foil. A second, lit match launches the match rocket. This activity involves fire; adult supervision required.
Twist & Shout
Source Institutions
Learners examine what happens when a tube spins in two directions at once. They push on a cardboard tube causing it to spin along its length while at the same time turning from end-to-end.
Physics in a Glass: Reversing Arrows
Source Institutions
In this simple activity, learners investigate refraction by placing a picture of an arrow behind a glass of water.
Physics Over the Sink: Water Glass Magic
Source Institutions
In this simple demonstration, learners investigate the properties of air pressure. Learners place an index card on top of a glass full of water, then invert the glass.
Watch It Fly
Source Institutions
Learners observe projectile motion by launching wooden balls off of a table top. They set up a rubber-band launcher so that each ball experiences a consistent amount of force.