Step 3: Test, evaluate, and redesign
Set up a target the size of a dart board (about 2 feet in diameter.) Stand 5 feet away and try to hit it with your rocket. Can you make your rocket hit the target every time?
Once you've hit the target 5-10 consecutive times try one of the following Challenges:
# of Breaths Challenge - It's very important that launch angle is the same for each launch.
- Fill the balloon with three breaths of air, launch the rocket, and measure how far it travels.
Repeat 3 times.
Find the MEAN average.
- Now fill the balloon with four breaths of air, launch the rocket and measure how far it travels.
Repeat 3 times.
Find the MEAN average.
- Continue with 5, 6, and 7 breaths.
- Plot the distance traveled against number of breaths. X axis is number of breaths and Y axis is distance traveled.
Launch Angle Challenge It's very important that you always use the same number of breaths for each launch.
Use a book to prop rocket and a protractor to measure and position launch angle.
- Launch rocket at a 30 degrees and measure how far it travels.
Repeat 3 times.
Find the MEAN average.
- Launch rocket at a 45 degrees and measure how far it travels.
Repeat 3 times.
Find the MEAN average.
- Launch rocket at a 60 degrees and measure how far it travels.
Repeat 3 times.
Find the MEAN average.
- Launch rocket at a 90 degrees and measure how far it travels.
Repeat 3 times.
Find the MEAN average.
- Plot the distance traveled against launch angle. X axis is launch angle and Y axis is distance traveled.
Last modified: Monday, 16 May 2011, 10:42 AM