STEM INTERACTIVE: How heavy is air?

Watch this video as a class :)

Explore this website with a friend.

Investigate air resistance with various objects, angles, initial speed, mass, diameter, and initial height.

Earth & Space Science
Weather and Climate
Grades K-8
Why doesn't air crush us?
Creativity and Innovation
Students demonstrate creative thinking, construct knowledge, and develop innovative products and processes using technology.

Create original works as a means of personal or group expression.

Essential Question:
What would happen to an unprotected person at the bottom of the ocean or in outer space when air pressure changes?

1. Watch the video and look for examples of air pressure. Can you identify another example of air pressure you have experienced or observed? Write down yours answers to share with the class.
   
2. In pairs  explore the site STUDY JAMS.  Illustrate 3 ways air pressure impacts climate and weather. 
3. Using Phet interactive work side by side with your partner and investigate air resistance. What is the variable that causes the biggest change in the speed and distance your objects travel?
4. EXIT TICKET:  How much does the entire atmosphere weigh? How many pounds of pressure is pressings on each square inch of your body? 
5. Extra Credit Activity: Test the weight of the atmosphere for yourself. Grab a barometer and take a measurement at the bottom and top of the mountain and record the difference.