STEM Activity: Buoyancy

Hi everybody! This week's STEM activity is on buoyancy. You can do this activity with the directions below or follow along with Ms. Sarah in the video.  

Buoyancy is the power of supporting a body so that it floats! Ships or boats that have a large, flat shape with high sides allows the weight to be evenly distributed. Kiddieland boats at the museum are built with flat bottoms and high sides to allow more guests to ride without sinking!

Thanks so much for participating in this week's STEM activity on buoyancy! We hope to see you next week!  

Supplies needed:
- Aluminum foil
- Scissors
- A tub of water
- A ruler
- Coins or weights

Directions:
- Fill your tub with water
- Cut a piece of the aluminum foil 5 inches long
- Make a boat out of the foil that is able to float in water and hold cargo
- Put your aluminum boat in the water. If it doesn't float right away, try a different style of boat!
- Once your boat is floating, begin to put the coins or weights in the boat one at a time until it sinks.
How many could your boat hold? Do you think a different style of boat could hold more weight?