Wind Detective - Science Play

Scientists use an instrument called an anemometer to tell how fast the wind is blowing.
The device we built is a model of a wind speed indicator. A real one will be able to accurately measure how fast the wind is blowing.

We used hot glue to attach the cups to the plate

Science Behind the Play:

Measuring Wind Speed - As the wind blows, the cups catch the blowing wind and turn on the stick. Each time the anemometer makes a full rotation, the wind speed is measured by the number of revolutions per minute (RPM). The number of revolutions can be recorded over time and an average is determined.

 
This anemometer can not tell the wind speed in miles per hour, but it can give you an idea of how fast the wind is blowing.

Using your watch, count the number of times the colored rimmed cup spins around in one minute. You are measuring the wind speed in revolutions (turns) per minute. Weather forecasters' anemometers convert the revolutions per minute into miles per hour (or kilometers per hour). Keep a record of the wind speeds you're measuring for the next few days.

Measure the wind speed at different times of the day. Is it the same in the morning; the afternoon; the evening? Move your anemometer to another location. Is it windier in other places? Do trees or buildings block the wind?