| The
Pitsco CO2 powered dragster is an exciting problem solving activity
that teaches students how to measure using the metric system
and the design process. Students design and build their cars
from kits according to a list of specifications that the car
must meet in order to race. The engine for the dragster is a
small cartridge filled with 4 grams of carbon dioxide. The cars
are placed on the track equipped with guidelines from the starting
line to finish line to keep the cars from coming off the track.
Racing format resembles that of real drag racing. The starting
system allows each student to start their own car following a
sequence of lights on the "Christmas tree". Once the
green light flickers and the student pushes the button, the starting
system punctures the cartridge in the car and sends the car down
the track at speeds reaching 60 mph. |