Suitable For
Grade 1
Difficulty
1
Time Required
<1 Hour
Supervision
Advised
What’s it about?
The steadiness of an object depends on how its weight is distributed. In order to successfully balance an object one must find its ‘centre of gravity’. Try the following science experiment to see if you can find the ‘centre of gravity’ of a plastic ruler:
Topics covered
Centre of mass / gravity
What will I need?
- STIFF PLASTIC RULER
Procedure (Method)
Unfortunately, this section is only available in the e-book version of the project.
How does it work?
Unfortunately, this section is only available in the e-book version of the project.
This science experiment works because the steadiness of the ruler depends on how its weight or ‘downward force’ is distributed. In order to balance a ruler successfully, you have to find its ‘centre of gravity’, where all of the ruler’s weight seems to be concentrated. When placed vertical, all of the ruler’s weight is either at the top or bottom, and hence you found it difficult to balance it. When held horizontal, it is much easier to balance as all of its weight was evenly distributed on either side.
Like the sound of it?
Why not check out the full worksheet in one of our popular e-books?
This particular science project can be found in any of the following Experiland e-books:
Experiland e-books contain detailed steps, including illustrations, to complete the science projects from start to finish.
