Kaleidoscope

INTRODUCTION

We all know the kaleidoscope as the little toy we used to play with to watch beautiful views. But, is it that all to it? Just a little toy to create colorful views? There has to be something more than just that. Thankfully, this project will show us the magic behind the kaleidoscope. With just some mirrors, lights, and colorful sequins, we will find out.

Deriving Question

How it is possible to see oneself from every angle?

MATERIALS

• 3 or 4 mirrors

• Tape

• card or something to cover the mirrors

• clingfilm

• sequins

• Lighter

PROCEDURE

1. Tape all mirrors in a triangular way. Making that the mirrors are facing each other.

2. Cover one free surface with card, secure it with tape, and make a whole in it.

3. Cover the other free surface with clingfilm. Make sure is well put.

4. Insert the sequins.

5. Shake it a little bit.

6. Hold the lighter or flashlight through the side of the clingfilm and observe through the hole.

7. Tada! Your own kaleidoscope.

SCIENTIFIC PRINCIPLE

A normal kaleidoscope have multiple mirrors that are placed facing each other at a certain angle, usually that angle is at 60 degrees. This creates seven duplicates images of the objects. As the tube is being rotated the colored objects are being changed of place and tumbling with each other making the patterns and colors change and create beautiful images. All this is thanks to reflection. As you keep rotating you will never encounter the same figure twice. That is the magic behind the kaleidoscope.