STEAM Fair 2020 Activity
Thanks to Chesapeake Family Life
Although named Boomerangs, these creations won’t return to you, but will explode dramatically when thrown.
What you need:
- 4 popsicle sticks
Video:
This object is made to be thrown. Set ground rules for where the boomerang can be thrown. No throwing at faces.
How to make an exploding boomerang
- Number sticks
Number each stick 1-4
- Lay down stick #1
Start off by holding stick 1 in your left hand and laying it down
- Add stick #3
Place stick 3 at a 45-55 degree angle from stick 1 and lay it on top of stick 1.
- Add stick #2
Take stick 2 and place the bottom end on top of stick 1. Place the opposite end in the middle of stick 3
- Add stick #4
Tuck stick 4 under the middle of stick 1, across the top of stick 2 and under the end of stick 3
- Throw the boomerang
It holds its shape until it hits its target and then it explodes with sticks flying everywhere.
How does it work?
The tension from each stick pressing on the other keeps the shape of the boomerang until the pressure is released from a collision and then the boomerang falls apart.
Observe:
How far can you throw the boomerang before it falls apart? Does it have to hit something to break? Does it matter how hard you throw it?
