Explosive chain reactions

STEM Weekend: week 5

Our next upcoming STEM project is one that will keep you on your toes to be sure. We will be making a cross weaving pattern with popsicle sticks in order to create an explosive result. The cross weaving pattern allows the popsicle sticks to use their own weight as counter leverage, once released from the weight of your hand the chain reaction results in a whirl wind of popsicle stick fun!

 The museum will be offering this STEM weekend project on August 22nd during the museums operational hours of 10am-3pm. STEM weekends take place in person in our Children's Gallery. If you cannot make it in to the museum this weekend you can try recreating this experiment at home. All you need is popsicle sticks and a little bit of patience! Follow the instructions below and make sure if you decide to post about your at home projects you tag us by using the hashtag #HCFM on social media.

​INSTRUCTIONS FOR AT HOME CREATIONS:
1. Lay down two sticks, one laying vertically leaning slightly to the left (Stick A) and the second placed horizontally across the bottom (stick B) of stick A with a sliver of stick A still visible
2. Lay a third stick (stick C) over stick B , laying parallel to stick A
3. Lay a fourth stick (stick D) through the two parallel sticks under stick A but over stick C. Stick D should meet with stick B and form an angle. 
4. Continue on the over and under pattern as you go. You may notice you have to continually move the sticks closer together.
5. Use your hand to add pressure to the sticks and keep them from prematurely exploding but once you have laid all of the sticks down you can move your hand and create a popsicle stick explosion

If you are more of visual learner you might want to try this Cobra Weave Popsicle Stick Chain Reaction instructional Youtube video linked below. 

We look forward to seeing all of your creations!!

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Youtube instructional video