Build your own chain reaction machines: how to make crazy contraptions using everyday stuff
Description
- Machines for Your Room. Be the master of your domain with the Door Knocker, Light Switcher, and Door Opener.
- Machines for Around the House. Get your chores done (and improve your personal hygiene) with the Plant Waterer, Toothpaste Squeezer, and Soap Dispenser.
- Machines for Fun and Nonsense.The Flag Raiser, Marble Launcher, Music Maker, and Balloon Popper are guaranteed to both amaze and amuse.
- Machines for Food. With the Vending Machine, Candy Dispenser, and Cookie Dunker, snacking has never been so fun!
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Booklist Review
While chain reaction machines are not useful, they are definitely fun to build and watch. A brief introduction describes how these complicated devices perform mundane jobs by linking a series of simple tasks (e.g., deflating balloons, releasing marbles, and springing mousetraps) to produce a domino effect. It also notes that these outlandish contraptions are sometimes called Rube Goldberg machines, after the inventor and cartoonist whose depictions made them popular. Following a chapter on basic tools and techniques (e.g., making washers, gears, and perfect circles), the book dives into building 13 chain reaction machines, from light switcher and plant waterer to marble launcher and cookie dunker. Each profile comprises materials needed (all easily accessible from home-repair stores) and detailed, step-by-step directions, which are also complemented by high-quality color photographs. In addition, the explanations include sidebars with troubleshooting tips and Engineering Know-How, which relates the science used, such as force, gravity, resistance, and counterweight, to form the chain reaction. The author leaves plenty of room for experimentation as well in this ideal resource for maker spaces.--Angela Leeper Copyright 2018 Booklist
Booklist Reviews
While chain reaction machines are not useful, they are definitely fun to build and watch. A brief introduction describes how these complicated devices perform mundane jobs by linking a series of simple tasks (e.g., deflating balloons, releasing marbles, and springing mousetraps) to produce a domino effect. It also notes that these outlandish contraptions are sometimes called Rube Goldberg machines, after the inventor and cartoonist whose depictions made them popular. Following a chapter on basic tools and techniques (e.g., making washers, gears, and perfect circles), the book dives into building 13 chain reaction machines, from light switcher and plant waterer to marble launcher and cookie dunker. Each profile comprises materials needed (all easily accessible from home-repair stores) and detailed, step-by-step directions, which are also complemented by high-quality color photographs. In addition, the explanations include sidebars with troubleshooting tips and "Engineering Know-How," which relates the science used, such as force, gravity, resistance, and counterweight, to form the chain reaction. The author leaves plenty of room for experimentation as well in this ideal resource for maker spaces. Grades 5-9. Copyright 2018 Booklist Reviews.