Slinky, Mega Springer

The metal spring toy that loves to walk, bounce, bop and spring! It especially likes walking down stairs and slopes.  But it is so much more than a walking spring. Hold the two end coils with both hands and raise and lower the Slinky in a rhythmic motion - addictive fun. Or explore the world of physical forces and principles with this super cool toy.

Age: 5 +

What you get

Mega Springer Metal Slinky in a box. 

How does it work?

The Slinky is not only one of the most successful toys of all time, it demonstrates many complex scientific ideas in its simple movement. When placed at the top of stairs it stays at rest and is said to have potential or stored energy. But once it is started down the stairs and is effected by gravity, its potential energy is converted to movement or kinetic energy. As the Slinky tumbles coil by coil down the steps, energy is transferred along its length in a longitudinal wave. Factors such as the length of the slinky, the diameter of the coils and the height of the step influence slinky movement.

Teach

• Energy potential and kinetic. Physics of movement.
• Demonstrate sound waves. Stretch the Slinky out between two people, each person needs to hold their end still and steady. Have one person tap their end of the Slinky and watch. The longitudinal wave that moves back and forward along the Slinky resembles a sound wave that travels through a substance by transferring a pulse of energy to the next molecule. 
• Test the strength of a magnet. Stick your magnet to the upright piled Slinky and lift the magnet. The more coils your magnet can lift the stronger it is. Super strong magnets can lift a Slinky clean off the ground/table.

WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD Small Parts. Not for children under 3 years.