Paddle Boat

Make a boat that paddles the length of the bathtub!

Why it works...

The energy stored in a twisted rubber band will spin the paddle on the boat. The spinning motion is transferred into the forward motion of the boat using Newton's 3rd law (every action has an equal and opposite reaction). The spinning paddle pushes the water backward and the water pushes the boat forward. And there you go! Science in action!

Supplies

  • Rubber Band

  • Cardboard with Duct Tape (or a waterproof and buoyant material like a plastic lid)

  • Scissors

  • Ruler

  • Pen

Step 1:

  • Use a ruler or straight edge to draw a rectangle on one end of your cardboard, leaving an inch or so on either side.

  • On the other end, draw the "boat shape" (like in the photo)


Step 2

  • Cut out your rectangle, and set the piece aside. (You'll need it later to use as your propeller)

  • Cut around your boat shaped lines.

Step 3:

  • Trim about a quarter of an inch off all sides of the rectangle. (You need room for your propeller to move freely)

Step 4:

  • If you used cardboard, cover your pieces with duct tape so your boat doesn't get soggy and sink.

Step 5:

  • Slip the rubber band onto your boat, over the empty space you cut out.

  • Place the propeller (your rectangle) into the rubber band.

Step 6:

  • Wind up your propeller and let it go to make sure it moves freely. If it doesn't, adjust the propeller and/or rubber band.

  • Wind up the propeller again.

  • Place it in water.

  • Let it go!

Thanks to Living on the Cheap for this STEAM activity.

https://livingonthecheap.com/kids-crafts-make-a-rubber-band-powered-boat/