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Paper Plane Launcher

STEM SPARK

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Introduction

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  • How to make a simple Paper Plane Launcher
  • Uses simple everyday materials
  • Shows how different forces make objects fly

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Experiment

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Materials Needed

  • Card stock paper (for the Paper Plane Launcher)
  • Rubber band (medium thickness)
  • Stapler (to attach the rubber band)
  • Medium thick paper to make Paper Plane
  • Scissors
  • Ruler and pencil

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How To Build

  • Follow the video instructions to build the Paper Airplane.
  • Fold the Card Stock Paper to make the Launcher as shown in the video instructions.
  • Attach a staple pin over the rubber band to the Launcher.
  • Secure the non-stapled end on the Launcher.
  • Slide the Paper Airplane through the Launcher so it touches the non-stapled rubberband end.
  • Pull the Launcher from either side to flatten it to let the rubberband push on to the Paper Plane for it to Fly In The Air.

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How It Works

  • When you pull back the rubber band, it stores potential energy.
  • Releasing it converts that energy into kinetic energy, launching the plane forward.
  • The length of rubber band pull, shape and weight of the airplane determine how far and how smoothly it flies.

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Science Behind the Launcher

  • Elastic Potential Energy: The stretched rubber band stores energy.
  • Kinetic Energy: When released, energy transfers to motion.
  • Aerodynamics: The airplane’s shape helps it glide through the air efficiently.
  • Newton’s Third Law: For every action (rubber band push), there’s an equal and opposite reaction (plane moves forward).

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Tips and Variations

  • Try different airplane designs to test which one flies the farthest.
  • Try longer Launcher and test.
  • Use thicker or thinner rubber bands to change the launching force.
  • Experiment with launch angles for distance vs. height.
  • Decorate your airplane to personalize it!

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Safety and Cleanup

  • Make sure to aim away from people and fragile objects.
  • Do not overstretch the rubber band to avoid snapping.
  • Clean up materials and safely dispose of scraps.

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Conclusion

  • This simple launcher project combines creativity with physics, helping students understand motion, energy, and design while having fun!

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