Variables & Materials

🔬 Variables

🎯 Independent Variable

The number of candles used: 1, 2, 3, or 4 candles

This is the variable that is intentionally changed to observe its effect on the carousel's rotation speed.

📊 Dependent Variable

The rotational speed of the carousel: Measured in rotations per minute (RPM)

This is what we measure to determine the effect of changing the number of candles.

🔒 Constant Variables

These variables are kept the same throughout all trials to ensure a fair test:

• Type and size of candles: Tea light candles (same brand and size)
• Distance between candles and carousel blades: Approximately 8-12 cm
• Angle of carousel blades: Approximately 30-40 degrees
• Size and material of carousel blades: Aluminum foil (same dimensions)
• Room temperature and air circulation: Closed windows, no fans
• Duration of measurement period: 1 minute
• Position of candles: Evenly spaced around the center
• Blade design: Same number of blades and same shape

📦 Materials

The following materials are needed to conduct this experiment:

🕯️ Candles and Fuel

• 4 tea light candles
• 🔥 Lighter or matches

🔨 Construction Materials

• Aluminum pie pan or aluminum foil (for making blades)
• Wooden skewer or thin dowel rod (for center axle)
• Small metal nut or bead (to serve as bearing)
• Base material (cardboard, wood, or another aluminum pie pan)
• Clay or playdough (for securing candles)

📏 Measurement Tools

• 📐 Ruler or measuring tape
• 📐 Protractor (for measuring blade angles)
• ⏱️ Stopwatch or timer
• ✏️ Permanent marker
• Optional: 🧭 compass for drawing circles

✂️ Tools

• Scissors or craft knife