Active Time
30-45 minutes
Total Project Time
30-45 minutes
Key Concepts
arch, load, structural engineering, mass
Four halves of an eggshell are used to balance three books

Introduction

Have you ever seen an arch structure in a building, such as over a doorway or surrounding large windows? Arches have been used in structural engineering since ancient times. In this activity you will test the strength of a naturally occurring arch shape: the shell of an egg. So grab some eggs and put them to good engineering use in trying to answer the following question: Just how much mass can an eggshell can support?

Credits

Teisha Rowland, PhD, Science Buddies
This activity is not appropriate for use as a science fair project. Good science fair projects have a stronger focus on controlling variables, taking accurate measurements, and analyzing data. To find a science fair project that is just right for you, browse our library of over 1,200 Science Fair Project Ideas or use the Topic Selection Wizard to get a personalized project recommendation.
Next: Materials

Materials

  • Raw eggs (at least 3)
  • A bowl
  • Dinner plate or other large, flat surface to place eggshells on for testing
  • Pencil or marker
  • Optional: Ruler
  • A rotary tool, sometimes called a dremel, similar to Amazon.com. Alternatively it is possible, but more challenging, to use a small triangular file.
  • Safety goggles, to protect your eyes from bits of egg shell when using the rotary tool
  • Hardcover book
  • Several magazines or light-weight books

Disclaimer: Science Buddies participates in affiliate programs with Home Science Tools, Amazon.com, Carolina Biological, and Jameco Electronics. Proceeds from the affiliate programs help support Science Buddies, a 501(c)(3) public charity, and keep our resources free for everyone. Our top priority is student learning. If you have any comments (positive or negative) related to purchases you've made for science projects from recommendations on our site, please let us know. Write to us at scibuddy@sciencebuddies.org.

Next: Instructions

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Active Time
30-45 minutes
Total Project Time
30-45 minutes
Key Concepts
arch, load, structural engineering, mass
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