ATE Central - Soda Can Mythbusting

Title:

Url:

http://technologyinterface.nmsu.edu/Spring06/12_Dues-Accepted/index.p...

Creator:

Dues, Joseph F.

Publisher:

Description: Examining the mechanics of a soda can is an exciting way to get students interested in strength of materials by relating classroom concepts to everyday objects. A soda can containing a carbonated drink is a thin wall pressure vessel. The geometry of the soda can is optimized to minimize the amount of aluminum required. The wall thickness is very thin and is subject to an appreciable amount of stress and strain. By mounting a strain gage to the can, and then relieving the stress by opening the can, the change in strain from the pressurized to unpressurized condition can easily be measured. This change in strain can be used to calculate the level of stress in the can before it was opened as well as the original pressure of the soda. This lab was planned as an informal experiment and once the principle concepts had been investigated; the students were encouraged to try their own tests with the can. Initially, they shook the can to observe the pressure rise associated with the agitation. They quickly then began sharing and testing methods for preventing or reducing the explosion when a shaken soda is opened. The students then tried a series of pressure reducing tests they labeled "MythBusters" in the spirit of TV shows and internet sites that attempt to expose urban legends. Given the opportunity to do their own experimenting, the students were much more enthusiastic about the lab. By testing their own theories for reducing the pressure in the soda can, they could clearly show if their method for preventing the explosion of a dropped can had any effect. This resulted in the students continuing to experiment long after they had fulfilled the required tasks of the lab experiment. Target Audience: 2-4 Year College Students, 9-12, High School Faculty/Administrators, 2-4 Year College Faculty/Administrators

LC Classification:

Bibliography. Library science. Information resources (General) -- Subject bibliography -- Education -- Special topics, A-Z -- Engineering education
Technology -- Engineering (General). Civil engineering -- Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General) -- Materials of engineering and construction -- Specific characteristics of materials -- Mechanical properties. Behavior of materials under applied forces -- Testing of materials (General and mechanical)

GEM Subject:

Science -- Engineering
Science -- Instructional issues
Vocational Education -- Trade and industrial

Key Concept:

Mechanical engineering -- Material strength
Mechanical engineering -- Pressure
Mechanical engineering -- Strain

Resource Type:

Instructional Materials
Lesson Plans
Reading Materials
Science Materials
Teaching Guides

Format:

pdf

Audience: