Have you seen that crazy popsicle stick chain reaction video in the archives? This Sick Science tutorial explains how to make it. Why does it work?
The key to the Popsicle Chain Reaction comes from potential and kinetic energy. As you weave the popsicle sticks together, you are continually building potential energy. Each popsicle stick is bent over the stick before it and pinned under the stick before that, creating tension in the wood. When you finally have the chain length that you want, you let go and all of the tension and potential energy is released in a chain reaction of kinetic energy!
In the archives: watch more Sick Science, as well as more excellent demos and DIY physics videos.
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