These spinning bats are another simple Halloween science activity using simple materials. You’ll need a straw or pencil, paper and a ruler to charge with static electricity.
When the bat ( or another spooky shape) is placed on the straw, and a ruler charged with static electricity is placed close by, the bat spins!
You’ll need
Straw or pencil
Paper
Scissors
Tissue paper
Instructions
Cut out bat shapes or use my handy template.
Place a straw or pencil in a ball of play dough and position it so it stands up straight.
Gently place the paper bat on top of the straw or pencil.
Rub the ruler or PVC pipe on a woolly jumper.
Place the ruler near the bat and watch it spin.
Why does the paper spin?
When you rub the ruler on your jumper or hair, it becomes charged with static electricity. This means the ruler has extra electrons and an overall negative charge.
The paper has a neutral charge, but when the ruler or pipe is placed near it, the paper becomes positively charged. Opposite charges attract, so the paper moves towards the ruler, making it spin.
Extension task
Cut out tissue paper ghosts and watch as they jump up to the charged ruler.
More Halloween Science Experiments for Kids
A spooky lava lamp is a fun and simple alternative ( or addition ) to a traditional pumpkin.
I also have lots of other great Halloween Science Experiments, including jumping ghosts, a spooky noise maker and fake blood.
Or how about giving one of my spooky Halloween STEM challenges a go?
Last Updated on October 30, 2024 by Emma Vanstone
