Which materials for your aircraft?
Measuring the density of materials to choose which to use in an aircraft.
Comparing two aircrafts of the same design, the heavier one will need more energy and fuel to fly. It will also fly slower than a lighter aircraft. Making an aircraft from suitable materials with a lower density means less weight – so less fuel is needed and it can fly faster. Can you select the best materials from which to make an aircraft?
In this activity learners will learn about the density of materials through testing. Learners will have an opportunity to weigh and work out the volume of an object. They will use this information and their number skills to calculate the density. They will then repeat this for other objects and discuss their results as a class.
You will need:
- Range of different materials to test
- Bowls and trays
- Science beakers/Measuring jugs
- Weighing scales
- Water
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