Will there be less force used when a box of washers is moved across different surfaces with sliders or rollers? Try it!

Materials:

• Newton Springscale
• Small Paper Clip Box
• 3 Large Paper Clips
• 6-8 Marbles
• 12 Washers
• Tape

Make A Slider:

1. Attach 1 large paper clip to each side of the bottom of the box with tape.
2. Unbend the 3rd large paper clip to make a hook and poke it through the end of the box. This is where the Newton Springscale will be attached.
3. Place the 12 washers in the box.
4. Pull the box across your desk and 3 other surfaces with the Newton Springscale.
   How much force is required to move the box?
5. Record your data in the form below.

Make A Roller:

1. Turn the box over and place the 6-8 marbles under it. (You may have to trim down the sides of your box to get a smooth ride on the marbles.)
2. Place the 12 washers on top of the box.
3. Pull the box across your desk and the same 3 surfaces with the Newton Springscale.
   How much force is required to move the box?
4. Record your data in the form below.

Which method used the least amount of force to move the box of washers?

Why do you think so?