Hands-On-Physics

The Great Bungee Jump
Core Project:
TOOLS & MATERIALS

Tools needed: To construct the bungee jump tower you will need a hacksaw to cut the PVC pipe. As with any cutting tool, hacksaws need to be used carefully. Be especially careful when starting a cut because the saw may slide along the surface of the tube. If you can, use a vise or clamp to secure the pipe while you cut it. If a clamp or vise is not available, enlist the aid of your lab partners to securely hold the pipe on a firm surface while it is cut. Cut the pipe near the edge, but not on, the supporting surface to minimize flexing and vibration.

You will also need a drill and bit to make holes in the pipe fittings for screws. The screws will help hold the pipe in the fittings, and keep it from rotating.

Materials:

Tower parts:

  • 1 piece of 1 1/2" PVC pipe 2.0 meters long (1 1/2" is the inside diameter of the pipe. The outside diameter is approx. 1 7/8")
  • 2 pieces of 1 1/2" PVC pipe 0.5 meters long
  • 2 pieces of 1 1/2" PVC pipe 10 centimeters long
  • 1 piece of PVC pipe 30 cm. long
  • 1 90 degree 1 1/2" PVC elbow fitting
  • 1 1 1/2" PVC tee fitting
  • 2 45 degree 1 1/2" PVC elbow fitting
  • 2 strap metal hangers for 1 1/2" pipe.
  • 6 (or more) sheet metal screws to secure fittings.
  • 1 2 1/2" hose clamp
  • 1 clip type clothes pin
  • duct tape
  • Approximately 1.5 m. of 3/16" elastic rubber strip
  • 1 6 ounce lead metal weight
  • 1 15 cm x 40 cm piece of copper window screening
  • Approx. 30 cm x 60 cm foam rubber pad (optional, to pad floor when dropping the lead metal weight)


Electrical parts:

  • Transformer and Low Voltage Power Supply
  • 1 -1microfarad capacitor
  • 1 -10 megaohm resistor
  • Approx. 10 ft. red hook-up wire
  • Approx. 10 ft. green hook-up wire




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