National Science Teaching Association: How Does Air Affect the Motion of a NASCAR Race Car?
Middle school students may think that in NASCAR racing, air can only prevent cars from reaching higher speeds.
But can air also be used to help a car move faster on the track?
Students analyze airflow data and data they collect in their own investigation to gather evidence to explain how race car design features both help the car move through the air and propel the car forward.
Materials
- Video Clip—People Walking in the Wind
- Fan – 1 per group
- Standard 8 ½ x 11-inch paper – 1 sheet per student
- Transparent tape
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Middle school students may think that in NASCAR racing, air can only prevent cars from reaching higher speeds.
But can air also be used to help a car move faster on the track?
Students analyze airflow data and data they collect in their own investigation to gather evidence to explain how race car design features both help the car move through the air and propel the car forward.
Materials
- Video Clip—People Walking in the Wind
- Fan – 1 per group
- Standard 8 ½ x 11-inch paper – 1 sheet per student
- Transparent tape
Download PDF
What are you looking for?
Organization
Website URL
Type of Resource
PDF File