The Lawrence Hall of Science

The public science center of the University of California, Berkeley.

Activity

Wind Tunnel

Activity

Wind Tunnel

Scientists use enormous wind tunnels to test the design of planes, helicopters, even the Space Shuttle. In this simulation activity, learners create a miniature wind tunnel test by blowing air with a fan or blow dryer through a large tube, then flying paper airplanes, helicopters and other folded paper models in the “wind.” Unless the source of the air is a fan that stands on its own, for example, more than one person will be needed to do the activity.

Materials List:


  • Large paper tube or heavy paper

  • Blow dryer or fan

  • Tape

  • String

  • Paper helicopter

  • Paper plane

  • Other folded paper models

Activities

Wind TunnelPDF

Topics: Physics, Forces & Motion, Technology, Engineering

Grade Level: Grades 1 - 8

Activity Type: Simulation

Preparation Time: 10 - 30 minutes

Activity Time: 10 - 30 minutes