Vocabulary
A push or pull that can change how something moves.
Force
Why did the last rubber band cause the watermelon to burst?
The last rubber band added just enough force to break the rind.
What is the invisible force that pulls objects with mass toward each other, keeping us on Earth and planets in orbit around the Sun
Gravity
A force that slows things down when they rub together.
Friction
Why won't a trapeze swing forever?
Friction and air resistance slow the trapeze down.
How did the Hopper jump?
The rubber band is stretched when the hopper is flat. When released, it pulls the sides together, pushing off the table and making the hopper jump.
An object that attracts materials like iron.
Magnets
Why was the suspension bridge a good design for the Golden Gate Bridge?
Suspension bridges allow tall ships to pass below.
What are pillars and arch bridges stronger than a board?
Pillars and arches push up from below, balancing the downward force from people and cars. Board bridges don’t have this support.
The force magnets use to pull certain materials.
Magnetism
What do magnets attract?
Objects that contain iron.
How do you make trapezes swing more slowly?
Use longer ropes. Longer ropes make the trapeze swing more slowly. Adding weight doesn’t change the speed.
A type of friction caused by air pushing against a moving object.
Air Resistance
Why is it hard to beat teachers in Tug-of-War?
Friction helps them grip the ground better and pull harder.
Are Paper Clips Magnets? How do you know?
No, but they can become magnetized when touching a magnet and can attract other iron objects for a short time.