Physical Principle: Conservation of momentum, elasticity

Description:

The toy consists of two parts, a launcher and a rocket. The launcher is a medium sized rubber ball that has a plastic rod inserted through the middle of it. The rocket is a smaller rubber ball that has a small foam 'rocket' attached to it. The rocket can slide onto the rod of the launcher. A child can slide a rocket onto the launcher, and then drop the whole contraption to the ground. Upon hitting the ground, the momentum will be transferred to the smaller ball/rocket, and the rocket will appear to 'shoot off'. The toy can also include a variety of launchers and rockets made from balls of different sizes and different types rubber. By combining the different launchers and rockets, a child can determine which combination works the best. In this process the child will observe the effect of elasticity on the transfer of momentum.

Target age: 3 yrs and up

Cost, Durability, Safety:

The entire toy is constructed of plastic, rubber, and plastic foam. This allows for a highly durable product that can easily be constructed for under $2. It is also safe, with the only potential hazard being the pointy end of the central plastic rod. Accordingly, children under the age of 3 should not be allowed ot play with it.