Learn how to make a 3D Tornado working model for your science exhibition! This DIY tornado uses a DC motor, cotton, and cardboard to simulate the destructive effect of tornadoes on a town. Easy and innovative project idea for school science fairs.
Simulate a rotating tornado using a cone-shaped cotton funnel, powered by a DC motor, and show damaged houses and vehicles made from cardboard to explain the destructive power of a tornado.
Materials Required:
- 1 small DC motor (3V–9V)
- Plastic cone or make one using thick chart paper
- Cotton (for the tornado effect)
- Cardboard base
- Small LED light (optional for effect)
- Houses, trees, cars – made from cardboard or color paper
- Battery holder with switch and 9V battery
- Glue gun, scissors, tape, wire, color paper
- Transparent acrylic sheet or plastic bottle (cut open) for the tornado chamber
- Thread or light sticks (to show spinning debris)
How to Make 3D Tornado Natural Disaster Working Model:
1. Build the Tornado Funnel:
- Use chart paper to form a cone shape about 15–20 cm tall.
- Wrap the cone in cotton and glue it spirally to give it a cloudy, tornado-like look.
2. Attach the Funnel to the DC Motor:
- Mount the DC motor vertically on the base.
- Use a small rod, skewer stick, or cap to connect the tornado cone to the motor shaft.
- When powered, the cone should spin slowly, simulating a swirling tornado.
3. Create the Tornado Scene:
- Use cardboard to create a village or town scene:
- A few houses – some intact, some broken (cut and bend the roof).
- Small cars and trees – tipped over or “flying”.
- Add a road or field with brown/green paper.
4. (Optional) Tornado Chamber:
- Place a cut plastic bottle or acrylic sheet around the tornado for a transparent barrier, like a simulation chamber.
5. Power Up:
- Connect the motor to a battery and switch.
- When you flip the switch, the tornado rotates, cotton swirls, and the scene appears as though a real tornado is destroying the town.