Egg Drop Project and Kinetic Energy

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SUMMARY

The Egg Drop project requires students to design a protective structure for an egg, adhering to a total mass limit of 20g and size restrictions of 6cm x 6cm x 30cm. The use of food, foam, and bubble wrap is prohibited, while parachutes must not exceed 12cm x 12cm x 30cm. The primary goal is to minimize the kinetic energy transfer to the egg during its fall. Suggestions include using multiple layers of paper to slow the descent, with a maximum of four pieces of paper allowed for construction.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy and its transfer
  • Basic principles of motion and gravity
  • Familiarity with materials suitable for impact absorption
  • Knowledge of structural integrity and securing methods
NEXT STEPS
  • Research techniques for designing impact-resistant structures
  • Explore the physics of parachute design and deployment
  • Investigate alternative lightweight materials for cushioning
  • Learn about the principles of energy dissipation in engineering
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students participating in engineering projects, educators teaching physics concepts, and anyone interested in practical applications of kinetic energy and material science.

jackrc11
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Homework Statement


[/B]
Our teacher has given us the weekend to go and work on the Egg Drop project. He's restricted us to 20g total mass and 6cm * 6cm * 30cm in size. Food, foam, bubble wrap is prohibited. Parachutes can be added but can not make it exceed 12cm * 12 cm * 30cm.

So that's what was given. I'm curious if there's any well known recommended way to do this. I understand the main concept is to make Kinetic energy be transferred to the egg slowly over a longer distance (rather than the regular one point on the ground). Any suggestions?

Homework Equations



No real equations to plug in here, just more application of basic ideas of energy and motion.

The Attempt at a Solution



My main idea of doing it was to have multiple layers of paper the egg can fall through, the main problem would likely be securing the layers together. A piece of paper is approximately 4.5g, so the limit is basically 4 pieces of paper to be safe. I'd think maybe one piece for a tubing to secure the egg in, then do layers of paper on the way down, with tape securing them?

Any other suggestions of methods or materials to use?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Have you tried Google? An image search with the phrase "egg drop project ideas" returns lots of interesting techniques.
 

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