Convert energy within a can. Learners build a can that suspends a weight inside the can via a rubber band. The pupils roll the can away from them as the rubber band wraps around itself. The force of the band unwinding brings the can back to the scholar.

Concepts

kinetic energy, potential energy

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Build a comeback can out of a clear tube to help class members see what is happening inside
• Collect data on how far each can will roll before coming back and then change the length of the rubber band to find the effect

Classroom Considerations

• Requires a can or container that allows for use of the bottom and the lid

Pros

• Provides a list of materials to construct a comeback can
• Includes an explanation of how potential and kinetic energy play a role in the activity

Cons

• None