Hooked on Science: Scribblebot

Materials

• 4 markers
• Popsicle stick
• Large disposable 18-ounce drinking cup
• AAA battery holder with switch
• Two AAA batteries
• Motor with spinner
• Duct tape
• Super glue

Instructions

STEP 1: Using the super glue, attach the AAA battery holder with switch to one end of the Popsicle stick and the motor with spinner to the other end of the Popsicle stick.

STEP 2: Super glue the Popsicle stick to the drinking cup. Connect the AAA battery holder with switch to the motor with spinner. Add the AAA batteries to the battery holder.

STEP 3: Using the duct tape, evenly secure the four markers inside the open end of the cup so the markers are pointing toward the ground.

STEP 4: Place your scribblebot on a white piece of paper, turn on the switch and observe.

Explanation

The vibrations created by the motor move through the cup to the markers, causing the scribblebot to move and create a work of art.

Jason Lindsey is a science outreach educator with Hooked on Science. Check out his website hookedonscience.org for webcasts and experiments.