04/05/2026
Our STEAM Lab students explored an interesting physics phenomenon using a simple propeller toy on a string. At first it seems surprising that when the propeller spins, the toy can move backward and then forward along the string, somewhat like the motion of a yo-yo.
This happens because the twisting string stores energy like a spring, while the spinning propeller pushes air backward; according to Newton’s Third Law, the air then pushes the propeller forward. As the string twists and untwists, the stored energy is released and the toy can travel back and forth along the string.
Instead of only observing the phenomenon, students applied STEAM thinking by designing and building their own propeller string toys using simple materials such as propellers, straws, strings, sticks, and rubber bands. They tested their designs and investigated how the number of twists, propeller size, and string length affect the motion.
Through this activity students engaged in science concepts of forces, motion, and energy, explored how propellers work in real technologies such as airplanes and drones, practiced engineering design and improvement, expressed creativity in their designs, and used basic measurements to analyze their results, demonstrating how hands-on exploration can make scientific ideas meaningful and memorable.
Searinet STEAM Lab IQ VIET MY- The Professional Tutoring Center
