What do I think will happen during this experiment?

Answers will vary, so here are some examples.
• I think the smallest (greatest) angle will give the greatest lift because of the way it makes the air flow over the wing. Faster air will flow over the top of the wing than underneath because the wings are tilted into the wind more.
• I think the greatest (least) angle will give the greatest lift because more air will be moving over the top than underneath (or vice versa).
• I think the best airflow will happen at an angle in between because too great of an angle will not allow as much air to flow over the top of the wing and the flow will break up and become turbulent. It will cause the air to flow faster over the top of the wing than underneath the wing. This will cause a difference in air pressure between the top and bottom and create the best lift.

Experiment Procedure Data and Data Sheet
Teacher Sample Key

Conclusion:Explain what your experiment’s results mean.

According to our results, the launch angle that gives the greatest amount of lift is about 20 degrees. The distance gained was only a little bit farther than the 10-degree angle (6 inches). This leads us to suspect that if we would experiment further and try a launch at a 15-degree angle and another at a 25-degree angle, we could pinpoint even more precisely what the best angle of attack is for takeoff for this airplane model.