Bump and Roll

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Overview

Bump and Roll

Catherine McCarthy [3]

v2.0_bump_and_roll_2.jpg [4]

img_0943.jpg [5]

v2.0_bump_and_roll_1.jpg [6]

Description:

Bump and Roll is an interactive exhibit that demonstrates nanomaterial properties using an everyday object: a leaf of cabbage. The nanoscale structures on a cabbage leaf cause water to bead up and slide off its surface. Scientists are replicating these “superhydrophobic” properties with nanotechnology. Drip water onto a cabbage leaf, and change the angle of the surface to see how the droplets behave. Find out about the super-small bumps that make this surprising behavior possible. Cabbage leaves must be replaced every few days, and Bump and Roll’s water tank must be refilled occasionally.

Objectives

Big Idea:

Nanoscience is harnessing nanoscale phenomena seen in nature to create new techniques, materials, and products.

Learning goals:

Tiny micro and nanoscale bumps can make surfaces water-repellent and self-cleaning.
It's fun to play with water on a superhydrophobic surface, but there are lots of practical applications of the technology.

Universal design:

Provide multiple entry points and multiple ways of engagement

Credits

Developed for the NISE Network with funding from the National Science Foundation under Award Numbers 0532536 and 0940143. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this product are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Foundation.