Creating a Newton’s third law working model using cardboard, paper, and syringes can be an engaging science project for an exhibition.
Here’s a simple way to do it:
Materials Needed:
- Cardboard
- Paper
- Plastic syringes
- Tape
- Scissors
- String or rubber bands
- Labels or markers
Step by Step Instructions:
- Rocket Body: Cut out a simple rocket shape from the paper & cardboard. This will serve as the main body of your rocket.
- Rocket Engine: Attach a plastic syringe to the bottom of the rocket body using tape. Ensure that the nozzle of the syringe points downwards, mimicking a rocket engine.
- Fins: Cut out fins from cardboard and attach them to the sides of the rocket for stability.
- Payload: Create a small payload using paper and cardboard. This could be a satellite, astronaut, or any other object you’d like to simulate launching into space.
- Reaction Mass: Fill another syringe with water or air. This syringe will represent the reaction mass that the rocket expels to create thrust.
- Launch Pad: Create a stable base for your rocket to stand on using cardboard or paper.
- Launch: Place your rocket on the launch pad. Hold the rocket steady with one hand and push the plunger of the syringe (representing the reaction mass) with the other hand. As you push the plunger, water or air will be expelled from the syringe, simulating the action of a rocket engine.
- Observation: Observe how pushing the plunger of the syringe (action) causes the rocket to move upwards (reaction). Discuss how this demonstrates Newton’s third law of motion: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
- Labels: Use labels or markers to label the parts of the model, such as “Rocket Body,” “Rocket Engine,” “Fins,” “Payload,” and “Reaction Mass.”
- Explanation: Prepare a brief explanation to accompany your model, explaining how it demonstrates Newton’s third law of motion and the principle of rocket propulsion.
By building and presenting this model, you can illustrate Newton’s third law of motion in action and demonstrate how it applies to rocketry and space exploration.