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Cub Scout Adventures >

Bear >

Race the Can

Bear – 3rd Grade

Super Science

Elective

Requirement 1

Race the Can

Bear – 3rd Grade

Super Science

Elective

Requirement 1

Race the Can

Snapshot of Activity

Cub Scouts use static electricity to push a can.

Indoor

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Supply List

Directions

Before the meeting:

During the meeting:

Explain to Cub Scouts that they will be conducting an experiment on static electricity. Everything around us is made up of very small things called atoms. Those atoms are made up of even smaller things, including protons and electrons. Protons have a positive charge, and electrons have a negative charge. Each atom usually has the same number of protons and electrons, but if two atoms bump into each other, electrons from one atom can get rubbed off onto the other atom.
Hand out an empty soda can and balloon to each Cub Scout.
Conduct the experiment:
- Have Cub Scouts place their cans on its side on a flat space, either a table or the floor (non-carpeted.)
- Fill the balloon with air and tie the end.
- Rub the balloon up against the side of your head, against your hair in a fast motion. Note: make sure your hair is clean and free from any hair products.
- Bring the balloon close to the can but don’t let them touch.
- The can will begin to roll towards the balloon on its own.
Lead a discussion with Cub Scouts:
- Did you think that the balloon could push the soda can?
- Why do you think that happened?
Once the Cub Scouts become comfortable with the experiment, have a race to see whose can makes the finish line.