Does anyone have any interesting and unique ideas to do for a project in physics about simple machines?

Question

All i need is sum help on ideas other than popping balloons, or turning on lites. thanx =]

Answer 1

For simple machines, you're going to end up using levers, wedges, screws, wheels, inclined planes, or block and tackle (pulleys). Those are what the term "simple machines" usually refers to.

Here's what you can do:

Have a contest to see which of the simple machines is the best device for moving a heavy box through an obstacle course. The obstacle course should include lifting and lateral movement of the box.

Make or buy some of the simple machines I have listed. Compare the *cost* of each simple machine to the amount of mass it can lift. This leads to engineering cost-benefit analysis thinking.

Have the student figure out ways to do the same job using different simple machines. Compare the effectiveness. Good report-writing exercise.

Calculate the ratio of input force to output force for each of the simple machines, called the "mechanical advantage." Very good math exercise for youngsters.

Answer 2

Rocket propelled boat? Two of the simplest machines you will ever see conbined together.

Answer 3

magnetic levitation train!

its simple.. just buy two magnetic bars..

one will be the rail, one will be under the "Train"

then, create a "wall" so that the train wont derail.

you can push the train and see it floating!