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In this activity, learners investigate how inkjet printers produce tiny, precise drops of ink. They examine printed paper with magnifying glasses, see a few demonstrations of how liquids behave differently at small scales, and see an explosive demonstration of how ink is forced out of an ink cartridge. This is a fun way to talk about how phenomena like surface tension become more important at small scales. Safety note: the demonstration involves fire—use appropriate caution.
- 5 to 10 minutes
- 10 to 30 minutes
- $10 - $20 per group of students
- Ages 4 - adult
- Activity, Demonstration, Lesson/Lesson Plan
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- A broken inkjet printer with empty ink cartridges
- A bucket of water (a clear bucket is best)
- Washable watercolor paint or food coloring
- Magnifying glass
- Flyers printed in color, especially with photos
- Glass capillary tubes
- Mason jar
- Wire screen cut to fit mason jar lid (screen with holes 2 mm wide at most)
- Wide tube that doesn't show capillary action (meniscus)
- Toothpicks
- Butane lighter or matches
- Scrap paper
- Assorted relevant photos or powerpoint presentation and projector.
- Possible extension (optional): Xyron Design Runner handheld printer
Subjects
-
Engineering and Technology
-
Computing
- Information Technology
-
Engineering
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Nanotechnology
-
Technology
- Manufacturing
-
Computing
-
Physical Sciences
-
Heat and Thermodynamics
- Heat and Temperature
- Heat Transfer
-
Motion and Forces
- Gravity
-
Heat and Thermodynamics
Informal Categories
- Computers
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Components that are part of this resource:
- Inkjet Printer - Lesson Plan
- Inkjet Printer - Animation
- Inkjet Printer - Flipbook
- Inkjet Printer - Presentation
- Inkjet Printer Training Video
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Rights:
Funding Sources:
- National Science Foundation, 0532536
- National Science Foundation, 0940143