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Ninth Grade Science Project Ideas With Eggs and Cotton Balls

Some ninth grade science classes cover some of the basic principles of science, including the principles of physics, such as force or the laws of motion. One of the ways in which these classes explore the laws of science is to create experiments for the students to use to enhance their learning. Some of these projects require very specific objects, such as eggs and cotton balls.

Objective
- When dealing with the laws of gravity and motion, forces are at work that can impact a delicate object, such as an egg. Dropping an egg from a high place or transporting an egg from one place to another can easily result in a broken egg and a mess. For most science projects that involve the use of an egg, have the objective of creating a form of transportation that will prevent the egg from breaking. Using a soft item, such as cotton balls, to cushion the fall is important to completing the objective successfully.
Construction
- Whether you will be dropping the egg from the second-floor window or transporting the egg across the floor or down a ramp, your vehicle must protect the egg. It is up to you and your partner, if you have one, to come up with a design that fits the specifications set by your teacher. In most cases, this involves creating a soft nest in which your egg can rest. Lining a small box with cotton balls provides a soft resting place for the egg. If you suspend the box with string or rubber bands, the suspension also helps protect the egg.
Experiment
- Once you have constructed your vehicle, it is time to test it out. Before you take your vehicle in to school for the final grade, give it a test run at home to see if your egg will survive. Nestle the egg gently among the cotton balls. Make sure you don't break any of the guidelines set by your teacher. For instance, some guidelines state that the egg must be at least half visible or cannot be full enclosed. Once you take your vehicle in to class, your egg should remain intact.
Adjustments
- If the cotton balls did not protect your egg completely, you need to make adjustments to your transport vehicle. Because the cotton balls are soft and the perfect way to protect the egg, you won't need to choose anything else. Instead, you likely need to change your design a bit. Altering the suspension or changing the position of the egg holder may be all you need to protect the egg. After you make a few minor adjustments, give your vehicle another test run to check the results. You may also want to use some other cushion materials as well, such as bubble wrap, packing peanuts or foam.

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