Mai Lesson

Build a Gravity Well

Science · 30 min · Any age · Away from the screen

This challenge uses everyday items to create a physical model of a black hole's immense gravity. Learners will observe how different objects react to a strong gravitational pull, just like stars and planets near a real black hole.

What your child gets out of it

• Design and build a physical model representing a black hole's gravitational pull.
• Observe and describe how mass affects the interaction of objects within a gravity well.
• Connect the model to the real-world concept of black holes and their influence on space.

What you need

• Large Bowl — Needs to be stable and wide enough for fabric to stretch over.
• Stretchy Fabric — Needs to be large enough to stretch tightly over your bowl. (or T-Shirt, Bed Sheet)
• Heavy Object — Choose something dense that will create a significant dip when placed on the fabric. (or Marble, Small Ball, Small Rock)
• Light Objects — You'll need several small, light items that can roll easily. (or Buttons, Beads, Small Pebbles)

How it runs

1. Introduction · 5 min
2. Explore & Plan · 8 min
3. Discussion · 6 min
4. Activity · 9 min
5. Summary · 2 min