Design a Propeller for Physics Project

[physics999help]

I have a physics project where I am supposed to make a car from index cards, manilla folders, paper clips, drinking straws, glue, tape, rubber bands, etc. I am attaching a propeller to the back, but I need a decent design i can make by cutting and bending a manilla folder. It should not be more than 3 inches across. Pretty, much, i need someone to give me dimensions for a workable propeller.

 

[mbrmbrg]

This link might help.
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=7864"

 

[m2003]

Dear student,

Thank you for reaching out for assistance with your physics project. Designing a propeller can be a challenging task, but with some basic principles and techniques, you can create a functional and efficient propeller for your car.

Firstly, it is important to understand the basic components of a propeller. A propeller consists of a hub, blades, and a pitch angle. The hub is the central part of the propeller that connects to the motor or engine. The blades are the rotating parts that generate the thrust for the vehicle. The pitch angle is the angle at which the blades are positioned in relation to the hub.

To begin, you will need to determine the size and shape of your propeller. Since you mentioned that the propeller should not be more than 3 inches across, I would recommend using a manilla folder that is 8.5 inches by 11 inches. This will give you enough material to create multiple blades for your propeller.

Next, you will need to decide on the number of blades for your propeller. Generally, more blades will provide more thrust, but it also increases the weight and drag of the propeller. For your project, I would recommend using three blades as it will provide a good balance between thrust and weight.

To create the blades, you will need to cut out three equal-sized rectangles from the manilla folder. The dimensions of the rectangles can be 3 inches by 1 inch. Once you have the three rectangles, you will need to bend them in half lengthwise to create a crease. This will allow the blades to have a curved shape, which is essential for generating thrust.

Next, you will need to attach the blades to the hub. You can use paper clips or drinking straws to create a sturdy connection between the blades and the hub. Make sure to position the blades at an angle of around 45 degrees to the hub. This angle will help to maximize the thrust generated by the propeller.

Lastly, you will need to adjust the pitch angle of the blades. This can be done by bending the blades slightly upwards or downwards at the tip. Experiment with different pitch angles to find the optimal setting for your propeller.

In conclusion, by following these guidelines, you should be able to create a functional propeller for your physics project. Remember to test and make adjustments as needed to achieve the best performance. Good luck with your project!

Sincerely,