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Potato Straw

Subject(s): Science | Physics | Age: 9-11 | 11-14 | 14-16 | Type: Teacher guidance | Video | Publication Year: 2010 to date
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Produced by the Institute of Physics, this Physics to Go video shows a short demonstration that can be used to engage your students. The teacher notes include the equipment needed, tips and contain a full explanation of the physics involved.

Could you push a plastic straw into a potato?
Try doing it slowly and the drinking straw will bend and crush. Be bold and do it quickly and the straw will penetrate the potato due to the instantaneous force and pressure. Watch the video to see it happening.

HEALTH and SAFETY
Any use of a resource that includes a practical activity must include a risk assessment. Please note that collections may contain ARCHIVE resources, which were developed at a much earlier date. Since that time there have been significant changes in the rules and guidance affecting laboratory practical work. Further information is provided in our Health and Safety guidance.

  • URL: http://stem.org.uk/rx6w7
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    Physics tricks (teacher notes)

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Resource author

Institute of Physics

Resource by: Institute of Physics

Collections

The resource is part of Institute of Physics

  • Institute of Physics: Physics to Go
  • Potato Straw

CPD links

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  • Getting practical

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  • Bristol chemlabs practical chemistry - for qualified chemistry teachers

    Science Learning Centre South West - University of Bristol

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