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Book 23, Question 148 · Video

Why Can a Ring-Shaped Straw Glider Fly?

Video · 2:00 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 23

A glider made from a straw and two paper rings? It does not look like a plane. But it really flies! Ring wings have been used in some real flying toys.

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why can a ring-shaped straw glider fly?

The Big Idea

A glider made from a straw and two paper rings? It does not look like a plane. But it really flies!

Build It

Step one: build it. A straw glider has two paper loops, one small and one larger. They are taped to the two ends of a straw.

Ring Wings

Step two: ring wings. The rings act like short, round wings. Air flowing through and around them gives lift, and the bigger ring at the back keeps the glider steady.

Launch It

Step three: launch it. Launch it gently with the small ring in front. Always throw away from people and pets, and never at anyone's face.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! The small ring goes in front. The straw joins the rings. The big ring keeps it steady. Moving air gives lift.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Ring wings have been used in some real flying toys. The rings work like short, round wings. The big ring at the back keeps it steady. Moving the rings changes how it flies.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Make a ring glider from two paper strips and a straw. Throw it gently and watch how it flies. Then move the rings closer together or farther apart. Test again and see what changes. Throw away from people and pets, and share what you discover with a grown-up.

Outro

A ring glider flies because its paper loops act like short, round wings. Air flowing through and around them gives lift, and the big ring at the back keeps it steady. Remember to throw it gently, away from people and pets. Science is amazing! Keep asking questions! There is always more to discover! Ask a grown-up to help you build one, and see how far your ring glider can fly. Thank you for exploring with me! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

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