Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

My GT Students are making the Propeller Car. However, when completing the project the car does not move at all. This has happened multiple times. We've used the same supplies that were in the demonstration video and followed all directions. The motors work and the propellers spin, so the connection is not the issue. It just doesn't move the car.





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Leave this to help the Experts:
The activity can be viewed at: DIY Mini Propeller Car

Hi - I would recommend just pushing the cars to make sure that they roll easily on their own. If there is too much friction with the wheels then the fans will not be powerful enough to push them.

Also, make sure you feel air blowing backward if you put your hand behind the car, to make sure the propellers are not spinning backwards.

Thanks,

Ben Finio, PhD
Lead Staff Scientist
Science Buddies