How Do You Build An Elastic Band Car?
Building and racing toy cars powered by elastic bands is a popular learning exercise for young people. You can see them being raced on such TV shows as “Nova” and “Zoom” as well as in YouTube video clips. According to the University of Idaho, the activity is an enjoyable way for students to learn about Newton’s Laws of Motion. Students learn about potential energy stored in the wound-up elastic band and the kinetic energy released when the band propels the car forward. Place the Styrofoam block flat on the table. Use the ruler to find a point 3 inches in from the end and 2 inches from the outside edge. Mark the spot with an “X” using the felt marker. Use the compass to draw a 2-inch circle around the X you marked in the last step. Use the craft saw or knife to cut out the circle you marked on the block Mark spots on the sides of the block 2 inches in from the front and back of the block. This marks where the axles will go. Use the craft drill to drill all the way through the block on t
