Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hello, I am currently preparing to do the experiment "How Far Will It Fly? Build & Test Paper Planes with Different Drag". I'm having a problem with understanding the procedure. It states to create 3 identical paper planes, and then modify each one to add drag. I understand up until step 12. However, I'm having trouble with the steps following that one. What's the difference between plane 1 and plane 2, or plane 1 and plane 3? If my question isn't very clear, I'd be happy to further elaborate. Thank you!

samiha - I think the instructions are telling you to create 3 planes as near identical as you can. Carefully measure the plane #1's flight distance 5 times, and calculate the average distance for the series of flights. Then modify plane #1 to add drag. Again, measure 5 flights and calculate the average. I think it is the next step where you are getting confused. Just take plane #2 and do the same 5 measurements and calculate the average, then modify plane #2 to add drag and fly it 5 times, calculating the average distance. Finally, do the same for plane #3. The table will be used to record all your measurement results. Basically, there is no difference between planes 1, 2 and 3 except for small construction variances. Same is true for the modifications. I think you are reading too much into the instructions. The use of 3 planes is again, to get an average of the measurements. The averages of the averages will suggest the difference the added drag makes on the flight distance.

Rick Marz