Summary
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Abstract
Here's a fun project idea to learn about compression forces. For this experiment you'll need some empty toilet paper tubes, masking tape, sand (or table salt), pebbles (or marbles), a funnel, a cardboard box, and a sturdy chair to help you balance while testing the column. Seal one end of the tube with masking tape. Use the funnel to fill the tube with sand (or salt). Seal the other end with tape. Place the tube on end inside the paper box. Place the chair with its back to the box and hold the chair for balance. Place one foot on top of the tube and gradually shift more and more of your weight to that leg. Does the tube support your weight? What happens if you fill the tube with something with larger particles, like pebbles or marbles? Will a single large column or several smaller columns support more weight? (WGBH Staff, 2000)Bibliography
WGBH Staff, 2000. "Building Big Educator's Guide, Activity: Columns" Educational Print and Outreach Department, WGBH Educational Foundation [accessed May 26, 2006] http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/buildingbig/educator/act_columns_ho.html
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Global Connections
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) are a blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.
This project explores topics key to Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.
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Cite This Page
General citation information is provided here. Be sure to check the formatting, including capitalization, for the method you are using and update your citation, as needed.MLA Style
Science Buddies Staff.
"Can a Toilet Paper Tube Support Your Weight?" Science Buddies,
20 Nov. 2020,
https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project-ideas/CE_p015/civil-engineering/can-a-toilet-paper-tube-support-your-weight.
Accessed 2 May 2024.
APA Style
Science Buddies Staff.
(2020, November 20).
Can a Toilet Paper Tube Support Your Weight?
Retrieved from
https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project-ideas/CE_p015/civil-engineering/can-a-toilet-paper-tube-support-your-weight
Last edit date: 2020-11-20
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