Science Experiment

Cutting string with the sun

In this experiment, we shall see if we can use the sun to cut string. Adult supervision is required

What you will need

• A jar with a lid
• Tape
• Piece of string
• Magnifying glass

Instructions

1. Tape the piece of string to the inside centre of the lid.
2. Put the lid on the jar so that the string hangs down inside.
3. Use the magnifying glass to focus the rays of the sun on the string for several minutes.
4. The heat from the sun will become intense enough to burn through the string.

What is happening

A magnifying glass is a convex lens that is used to make objects appear larger. The convex lens of the magnifying glass converges (connects) the sun rays when they pass through it. Since sun rays carry energy, when the magnifying glass converges them to one point, this energy becomes concentrated enough to raise the temperature of the string, until it burns.