Purpose
To demonstrate that an object remains stationary due to inertia.
Materials
- scissors
- ruler
- typing paper
- unopened can of soda
Procedure
- Cut a 4-inch X 10-inch (10 cm x 25 cm) strip of paper.
- Lay the paper strip on a clean, dry table.
- Place the soda can over one end of the paper. Note: Be sure that the bottom of the can is clean and dry.
- Hold the other end of the paper and push it close to the can.
- Quickly snap the paper away from the can in a straight line.
Results
If you pulled the paper quickly enough, it moved from under the can, but the can remained upright and in the same place.
Why?
Inertia is a resistance to any change in motion. An object that is stationary remains that way until some force causes it to move. The can is not attached to the paper. Because of the can’s inertia, it remains stationary even though the paper moves forward.