Invisible Force Challenge

Person placing a magnet to one side of the path directly in front of a ramp. A dotted line projects the path of an object that will move from the ramp and curve toward the magnet. Caption: Let's place the magnet somewhere to alter the marble's course.

To change a spacecraft's speed and direction, NASA engineers use a planet's or moon's gravity, a process called a "gravity assist." In this video, students design and build systems that use magnets to control the speed and direction of a rolling ball. As they build their systems, they use the engineering design process, apply a variety of science concepts, and learn how NASA spacecraft use gravity to help them explore the solar system. Part of the "Design Squad Nation" series.

(Source: DCMP)

Metadata

Files 1

  • Invisible Force Challenge

    Type:
    Video
    Format:
    Streaming
    Accommodations:
    English Audio Descriptions - Visual, English Captions - Auditory
    Languages:
    English
    License:
    OER
    Author:
    PBS Learning Media
    Length:
    4 minutes