Comeback Cans: Potentially Energize “You CAN Do” Science Attitudes

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Learners predict-observe-explain the rolling behavior of the two cans in terms of kinetic and potential energy conversions and friction. Two seemingly identical opaque cans are set against each other in a race on a flat surface. Initially, both cans behave as expected as they roll in the direction in which they were pushed. However, the Comeback Can slows down more quickly than the other and then, most surprisingly, rather than coming to rest, it stops, reverses direction, and returns to the instructor.

Details

Type Book ChapterPub Date 3/1/2011Stock # PB271X2_1

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Ruth Hutson (Westmoreland, KS)

A great puzzler

This lesson would be great for all ages as an engagement activity. In my high school physics class, I would use it to help my students understand how scientists use models to explain "black... See More

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