Are you looking for a fun and creative activity that will also teach your kids about science? Look no further than pendulum painting! This fun and easy craft project will not only entertain your kids, but also teach them about the physics of motion and gravity. This pendulum painting that will create very unique art designs and patterns. This activity will requiere some imagination, creativity and an area where you can get messy with paint.
DIFFICULTY
Easy
MATERIALS
Tools to make the stand (Paper tubes, recycled KiwiCo wood, etc)
Paper cup
String
Acrylic Paint
Paper
Glue
INSTRUCTIONS
We re-used a stand that we created in a MelScience box but you can also make a stand with paper tubes and glue them together.
Cut a hole in the middle of the paper cup and on the sides for hanging.
Attach the paper cup to the stand using a string.
I would recommend using hot glue to make it sturdy. Let it dry at least one hour before starting to move the pendulum.
Cover the area/table with a blank paper or newspaper.
Add acrylic paint to the cup and move the pendulum around to make art. Be careful not to add too much paint. ^_^
Have fun!
THE SCIENCE
A pendulum is an object that swings back and forth on a fixed point or axis. In the case of pendulum painting, the fixed point is the string tied to the cup or jar at the top. Gravity is what causes the pendulum to swing. As the pendulum swings back and forth, it creates a repeating pattern or motion. The pattern depends on several factors, including the length of the string, the weight of the object at the bottom of the string, and the angle of the swing. In pendulum painting, the weight of the cup or jar at the bottom of the string creates the force that drives the pendulum's motion. As the pendulum swings, the cup or jar moves through the paint and creates a pattern on the paper below. The speed and direction of the pendulum's swing will affect the pattern of the paint on the paper. For example, a faster swing will create wider lines, while a slower swing will create narrower lines. Additionally, the weight of the paint can also affect the pattern. A heavier paint will create a wider line, while a lighter paint will create a narrower line. Finally, the direction of the pendulum's swing can also affect the pattern. Swinging the pendulum in circles or figure eights will create more complex patterns, while swinging it in a straight line will create a simpler pattern.
Overall, pendulum painting is a fun and creative way for kids to learn about the principles of motion and gravity. They can experiment with different variables to create unique patterns and designs, all while learning about science!
SAFETY
Adult supervision required for any of these activities. Please supervise and make sure children participating are safe. Read instructions and the safety labels from each material.
DISCLAIMER
This blog post may contain affiliate links for your convenience. I may receive a commission for purchase made through links in this post.
Comments