Can a Toilet Paper Tube Support Your Weight? *
*Note: This is an abbreviated Project Idea, without notes to start your background research, a specific list of materials, or a procedure for how to do the experiment. You can identify abbreviated Project Ideas by the asterisk at the end of the title. If you want a Project Idea with full instructions, please pick one without an asterisk.
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)Share your story with Science Buddies!
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Last edit date: 2013-01-10
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.htmlShare your story with Science Buddies!
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