The Artificial Maple Seed:

A paper copy of a maple seed

Objective

Create different flying machines that help explain the forces of aerodynamics.

Supplies

construction paper or card stock, ruler, scissors, paperclips. Optionally, markers, crayons, etc. to decorate the flyers.

Steps

1. Cut a piece of paper approximately 8” long by 1-1/2” wide.
2. Along one edge fold back the paper about 1/4”.
   
3. At one end fold the paper back approximately 1/2”.
   
4. Repeat five (5) times.
5. Take a paperclip and slide over the folder end parallel to the short edge.
   
6. Take outside or into a large room and through it high in the air. Watch it spin down to earth! (It does need a good height and still air to settle in to its flight mode)

Discussion

• Why does the maple seed spin?
• Wha advantage does this give the seed over other seeds?

References

https://www.exploratorium.edu/science_explorer/roto-copter.html

Activity by Steve Newlands, Bates Site