Model Rubber Band Car Kit — A Hands‑On STEM Experience

Introduce your students to the principles of energy conversion and mechanical motion with the Model Rubber Band Car Kit. This engaging project allows students to build a model car powered entirely by the elastic potential energy stored in a wound rubber band, offering a practical application of physics concepts in a classroom setting.

What’s in the Kit & How It Works

The kit includes:

• Laser-cut wooden components for easy assembly

• Rubber bands for energy storage

• Wheels and axles for movement

• Clear and simple instructions for assembly

When students wind the rubber band, they store elastic potential energy. Upon release, this energy is converted into kinetic energy, propelling the car forward. The amount of stored energy and the design of the car will influence its speed and distance traveled.

STEM Concepts Illuminated

This kit provides an excellent opportunity to explore various STEM concepts:

• Energy Conversion: Understanding how elastic potential energy is transformed into kinetic energy.

• Mechanical Engineering: Learning about gears, axles, and wheels to create movement.

• Physics: Exploring concepts of force, motion, and energy transfer.

• Design and Optimization: Applying design principles to maximize the car's performance.

Why Teachers Will Love It

• Hands-On Learning: Students actively engage in building and understanding the mechanics of a rubber band-powered car.

• Cross-Disciplinary Connections: Integrates concepts from science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

• Encourages Critical Thinking: Students can experiment with different configurations and observe outcomes.

• Affordable and Scalable: Cost-effective for classroom use and suitable for group activities.

Classroom Activity Ideas

• Distance Challenge: Have students modify their car designs to achieve the longest distance traveled.

• Speed Trials: Test how quickly different designs can travel a set distance.

• Energy Analysis: Discuss how the amount of wind in the rubber band affects the car's performance.

• Design Optimization: Encourage students to tweak their designs to improve efficiency and performance.

Bring physics and engineering together in a creative, hands-on project. With the Model Rubber Band Car Kit, students won't just learn about energy—they'll experience it in motion.