In Gathering this week, we showed second graders two videos of insects that have simple machines in their bodies. One has a two-pronged lever and another has a gear. In case you are interested in seeing these insects in action, here is more information:
The Plant Hopper:
http://www.ibtimes.com/mechanical-gears-found-nature-planthoppers-use-cogs-jump-1405818
If you have Hulu, look for the David Attenborough series, Life in the Undergrowth: The Invaders from the Sea, Season 1: Episode 1. At about 9:45 you will meet the Springtail. Or if you want to use YouTube, here's a link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OwOL-MHcQ1w
This is not the whole section but it will show the Springtail in action.
Let us know if you know of any other examples of simple machines in nature.
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The insect gear study is interesting and very topical. It's terrific you are sharing cutting edge research with the kids.
ReplyDeleteThe work on synthesizing glues that resemble mollusks' biochemical means of attaching themselves to rocks (i.e., a glue that works in water) is also quite cool...
http://www.sciencedaily.com/videos/2005/0601-wood_glue_inspired_by_mussels.htm
And how about those lizards? The use in some animals -- like geckos -- of nanomaterial-like hair coatings allows them to adhere to surfaces like walls and ceilings. The adhesion forces at the nanoscale are stronger than they would be with macro elements. It's related to Van der Waals forces, but that may be for a later grade. : )
http://www.nanowerk.com/spotlight/spotid=1182.php