videoIn Science Honours 10 we were tasked with a paper plane lab that explored and tested our knowledge of aerodynamics. In this lab my group and I chose to test where we could apply weight on the bottom of the plane, paperclips in this case, to a paper plane that allowed for it to travel the greatest distance. Using two paperclips in the center of the plane as our control we conducted five trials and recorded the average, redoing any outlying trials. Starting with some background research in the field of paper planes, aerodynamics, weight, and even paper folding we decided to use a classical plane as our model that would be a constant for all trials. Hypothesizing that a paper plane with weights applied in the center bottom of the plane (the control) would fly the farthest we were ready to begin our investigation. Conclusively, however, my hypothesis was rejected as the plane with weights applied on the front (the tip) of the airplane proved to fly the farthest distance. Looking into how this was possible we discovered that the added weight to the front allowed the plane to slice through the air flying further and increasing the plane’s aerodynamics. In this lab I learned a lot about aerodynamics and how to manipulate weight on a plane to achieve maximum distance. For the future a lab like this can be altered by using different styles of planes or use a machine to ensure the same angle and force is applied to each throw.
