Materials List: Linear Models and Latex Explosion!

Each group needs:

  • bicycle pump
  • needle tip extension for bicycle pump (available at bicycle and hardware stores where bicycle pumps are sold; often used for inflating basketballs, very important for attaching the latex tubing to the bicycle pump)
  • 3 sets of 3 latex tubes (total of 9 tubes) with the following wall thicknesses: 1/32 in (0.08 cm), 1/16 in (0.16 cm) and 3/32 in (0.24 cm), with each tube 1 foot (30.5 cm) in length; available at mcmaster.com, search for latex tubing: http://www.mcmaster.com/#latex-tubing/=ojr7ts (Tip: The inner and outer diameters will vary, but it is best to order tubes with proportional dimensions among all 3 sizes.)
  • precision ruler, for accurately measuring millimeters and centimeters; even better, provide digital rulers with calipers (alternatively, provide students with the tube dimensions, as supplied from the manufacturer)
  • access to a computer with Microsoft® Excel®
  • 2 rubber bands (to seal the ends of the tubes; small rubber bands are preferable)
  • 2 zip ties (also for sealing the tubes)
  • marker
  • journal (or paper), for each person, for documenting results, conclusions and reflections
  • safety glasses, one per person
  • ear protection, such as ear muffs, available at hardware stores or online at https://www.harborfreight.com/industrial-ear-muffs-43768.html, one per person
  • Interpreting Graphs Homework, one per person, as completed from previous/associated lesson
  • Linear Models from Experimental Data Worksheet, one per group

To share with the entire class:

  • overhead projector
  • computer with projector to show video
https://www.teachengineering.org/activities/view/van_latex_lesson02_activity1