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Science Challenge

Full science inquiry involves asking a simple question, completing an investigation, answering the question, and presenting the results to others. Experiments are guided by concepts and are performed to test ideas.

science challenge

 Challenge  Set up an experiment to test this question:
 Question

 

How many textbooks (or other uniform, stackable objects) can you stack without causing the stack to fall? (NOTE: Each book must rest over the edge of the book underneath.)


 Procedure

 

Write your question, hypothesis, procedure, and materials list on a sheet of paper. Consider the type of data you need to collect to answer the question. Construct a data table to record your observations. Is it possible to mathematically calculate the positions of the centers of gravity of the blocks as the stack is built? (Answer: 2 n of block length along the n+1 block.) After completing your tests, write up your results, and present the results in a visual and an oral format.

 Extension

 

What further questions about longitudinal stability or center of gravity might you explore?

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