Stretching rubber
I can investigate the extension of a rubber band, and compare the behaviour to that of a spring.
Stretching rubber
I can investigate the extension of a rubber band, and compare the behaviour to that of a spring.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A rubber band is elastic because it returns to its original length when a force is removed.
- The extension of a rubber band increases different amounts for each equal sized increase in force.
- The extension of a spring is not directly proportional to the force applied.
- The extension pattern is explained by the behaviour of molecular chains in the rubber.
Keywords
Extension - The extension of a rubber band is its change in length.
Directly proportional - Variables are directly proportional when one is a constant multiple of the other.
Elastic - A rubber band is elastic; it returns to its original length after forces are removed from it.
Long molecular chains - Rubber contains long molecular chains, that uncoil when it stretches.
Common misconception
Pupils find it challenging to link the shape of a line graph with physical change in the real world.
Compare two sections of the graph, using the amount of extra stretch per newton as a measure of how easy the rubber band is to stretch.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
material returns to its original length after forces are removed
the increase in length when a material is stretched
when one variable increases, the other increases at the same rate
the structure of rubber
