Physics Music Lab: Rainstick STEM Assignment, Printables, and Guided Experiment

Immerse your students in the fascinating world where physics and music intertwine with our "Physics Music Lab," which explores the science behind the rainstick.

This resource offers a versatile research project suitable for a wide range of students. It provides two distinct levels of engagement:

(1) Easy Level: Guided Exploration, No Equations
This level includes helpful handouts and a comprehensive teacher guide. The research plan involves the following steps:

• Creating a Rainstick (using simple materials like nails and an empty paper towel roll or a flat piece of cardboard, as explained in the document).
• Recording Musical Sounds
• Playing Back Sounds in Slow Motion

(2) Challenge Level: Open Inquiry, Equations Included
For students eager to delve deeper into the complexities of rainstick physics, the challenge level is ideal. This level covers:

• Advanced Rainstick Construction
• Ball Tracking (see the video preview!)
• Building Function Models
• Controlling Parameters
• Exploring Chaotic Behavior

Easy Setup, Boundless Fun!

Skills Developed:

• Model Construction and Assembly
• Data Collection
• Data Analysis

Physics Concepts Explored:

• Motion on Inclined Surfaces
• Momentum and Friction
• Electric Current Analogy using the Drude Model (with detailed explanations provided)
• A Glimpse into Chaos Theory (All Information Included)

Take a Step Towards Higher Education:
This high school project exceeded expectations. Recognized by outstanding teachers, it evolved into a peer-reviewed journal article, giving credit to the ingenious high school seniors behind it. Explore "The Rain Stick: A Simple Model for Dynamics of Particles Passing Obstacles in a Gravitational Field."
Embark on an intriguing journey where the worlds of physics and music intersect. Transform learning into an adventure of discovery, exploration, and innovation. This lab isn't just about rainsticks; it's about embracing the wonders of science through the magic of sound! ✌