Strength of Paper Columns

Different column shapes and sizes made from regular paper can support weight. By stacking books or weights on each shape, students can discover which structure distributes force most effectively and holds the most weight.

1. Gather three sheets of regular typing paper and some tape.
2. Roll or fold each sheet to create one triangle-shaped column, one rectangular column, and one cylindrical column.
3. Use tape to keep them consistent in construction.
4. Place one column upright on a flat surface.
5. Gradually place books or other uniform weights on top of the column, counting how many it holds before collapsing.
6. Repeat the test for each of the three shapes.

The Strongest Paper Column Challenge | Column Strength Test | STEM Challenge - Hungry SciANNtist:

Columns Experiment | Science of Strong Shapes - Science Lab ANU:

📄 Strong Shapes - how strong is a piece of paper - Emma Vanstone: https://www.science-sparks.com/strong-shapes-how-strong-is-a-piece-of-paper

📄 Standing Tall: Strength of Shapes- Katelyn E. Shipp: https://csef.usc.edu/History/2007/Projects/J0227.pdf

📄🎞️ Rookie Science: Column Strength Test: https://digitalbranch.cmlibrary.org/kids-club/column-strength-test/

• Set as a challenge for students to attempt to build the best column shape with limited materials.
• Try different materials such as cardstock or construction paper to see how material thickness affects strength.
• Test larger or smaller columns to explore how size impacts load-bearing ability.
• Add internal supports or layers to see if the shape can hold more weight.

• Ensure the testing area is stable and clear of fragile objects.
• Use caution when stacking heavy books to prevent them from falling.

• Which column shape held the most weight? (Usually the cylinder.)
• Why was the cylinder able to hold more weight? (Because it has no edges and distributes force evenly around its surface.)
• How do the edges of the triangle and rectangle affect their strength? (The corners concentrate pressure, causing the shapes to buckle more easily.)
• Where in the real world do we see cylindrical columns used? (In buildings, bridges, and towers because they efficiently support weight.)
• How would increasing the thickness of the paper affect the results? (Thicker paper would increase strength and allow each shape to hold more weight.)