Introduction 

Imagine that you just got into bed and realized that you forgot to turn off the lights. Sure, you could just get up again — but wouldn’t it be fun to build a chain reaction machine like the one above? Chain reaction machines are made up of everyday objects and designed to accomplish a simple task in a silly and complicated way. Movement is created by storing and transferring energy, while using gravity and simple machines like levers and pulleys to help it along. We’ve broken down these complex concepts into some simple activities. Build, reset, and try again. And most of all, have fun as you make your own unique chain reaction machine!

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Design Challenge

Explore stored energy and energy transfer as you build a series of chain reactions.