Question: I would like to investigate the distance the paper aeroplane flies?
Hypothesis: If we change the weight distribution of the paper aeroplane then the plane will fly at different distances because it has different weight distribution while flying through the air.
Dependent Variable: The Distance the paper aeroplane flies.
Independent Variable: The place the paper clip is placed on the plane.
Contolled Variable: Conditions, size of the paper, power of the throw, type of paper aeroplane.
Materials: 8X11 paper, 2 paper clips(same size)
Experiment:
- Throw 3 different weight distributions of paper aeroplanes 5 times each.
- Measure distance in meters of aeroplane flight and record on paper.
- Draw a bar graph to compare visually
Result:
Paper aeroplane no paper clips: Average Distance (9.82 m)
Paper aeroplane two paper clips on the front: Average Distance (9.1m)
Paper aeroplane two paper clips on the back: Average Distance(5.65m)
Conclusion:
In the end, our theory was found to be false. My partner and I learned that adding extra weight to the plane can help, but the appropriate amount is required. According to the statistics presented above, the appropriate amount of weight must be added to enhance the speed/distance. Our first and third planes (lightest and heaviest, respectively) both failed to support our theory.
By throwing more regularly, this experiment can be improved. The bulk of our throws were inconsistent due to a lack of power and precision. As a consequence, some of the values were higher/lower than the majority, causing our data to be skewed. Another issue that may be rectified is the position of the paper clips (weight). Our clips were placed towards the plane’s front tip, which might cause instability. Other issues that can be resolved include calculating human errors and positioning aircraft during launch.
I’ve learnt a lot over this endeavour, especially about paper aeroplanes. I had no idea flying paper planes could be so challenging. My interest in aerodynamics was aroused by this experiment.
