This model demonstrates the concept of gravity, which is the force of attraction between two masses. While the gravitational force between the small thermocol balls is very weak and may not be easily observable, this model helps visualize the concept that all objects with mass attract each other.
In the context of Earth, gravity is what keeps everything anchored to the ground and what causes objects to fall when dropped.
Creating a working model to demonstrate Earth’s gravitational force using two thermocol balls, cardboard, and thread is a great way to illustrate basic principles of gravity. This project will visually show how objects are attracted towards each other due to gravity. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build this project:
Materials Needed:
- 2 thermocol balls (styrofoam balls)
- Cardboard
- Magnet
- Thread
- Scissors or a craft knife
- Glue or tape
- Marker
- Ruler
- Skewer or wooden stick (optional, for added stability)
Step by Step Video Instructions on Earth Gravitational force:
- Prepare the Cardboard Base:
- Cut a large rectangular piece of cardboard to serve as the base for your model. This will provide stability.
- Create the Stand:
- Cut two equal pieces of cardboard to create the vertical stands that will hold the thermocol balls.
- Ensure these pieces are tall enough to allow the balls to hang freely when suspended.
- Assemble the Stand:
- Attach the two vertical cardboard pieces to the base using glue or tape, ensuring they are spaced apart enough to allow the balls to hang between them.
- For added stability, you can reinforce the base and the stands with additional pieces of cardboard.
- Prepare the Thermocol Balls:
- Make a small hole in each thermocol ball using a skewer or a wooden stick.
- Cut two pieces of thread, each about 30 cm long. Adjust the length based on the height of your stands.
- Attach the Magnet to it
- Attach the Thread to the Balls:
- Insert one end of the thread into the hole in each thermocol ball and secure it with glue. Allow the glue to dry completely.
- Ensure the thread is firmly attached and won’t come loose.
- Attach the Balls to the Stand:
- Tie the other end of each thread to the top of each vertical cardboard stand. The balls should be able to hang freely without touching the base.
- Ensure the balls are positioned close enough to each other to demonstrate the attraction between them but not so close that they touch.
- Demonstrate Gravitational Attraction:
- Gently push one of the balls and observe how it moves towards the other ball due to the gravitational attraction between them.
- You can explain that while the gravitational force between small objects like these balls is minimal, it becomes significant when considering massive objects like planets and stars