Science in Action: The Great Balloon Drop!
Year 5 turned into flight physicists this week as we explored the invisible force of air resistance.
To test how surface area affects the rate of descent, we blew up balloons to various sizes and carefully timed their journey to the floor. There were plenty of predictions (and a few stray balloons!) as we investigated whether a larger surface area creates more "drag" to slow an object down.
Our young scientists practiced their fair testing skills by keeping the drop height the same, discovering first-hand how air molecules push back against moving objects.
Over to you...
If we dropped a flat sheet of paper and a crumpled ball of paper at the same time, which one do you think would hit the ground first, and why? Let us know your theories in the comments!