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All STEM Activities

A Really Long Straw

Active Time
30-45 minutes
Total Project Time
30-45 minutes
Key Concepts
Atmospheric pressure, air pressure
colorful long straws for STEM activity

Introduction

Have you ever used a crazy straw? Some spiral their way up. Others have fancy colors or decorations. Some are thin and others are wide. But just about all of them leave you sipping your drink from about the same distance. Why? Wouldn't it be fun to poke your head out of an upstairs window and secretly take a sip from a drink way below? Would it even be possible? With this activity, you'll see if you can set your own record for the longest working straw!

Credits

Sabine De Brabandere, 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

  • A package of plastic straws (at least one dozen), preferably those with a bendable part
  • Scissors
  • Ruler
  • Tape
  • Drinking glass
  • Water or juice
  • Level surface that can get wet (or if not, something to protect it)
  • Sturdy chair or table on which to stand
    materials for long straws STEM activity
Next: Instructions

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Active Time
30-45 minutes
Total Project Time
30-45 minutes
Key Concepts
Atmospheric pressure, air pressure
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