Paper Arch Supports Weight

The shaped paper holds much more weight. Ask students to predict what will happen. Bridge a gap with flat paper, then with folded/arched paper. Key idea: Changing shape redirects forces and increases stiffness. Ask: How did the same paper become stronger? Safety and cleanup: Use small weights; keep fingers out from under load. https://www.google.com/search?q=%22Paper%20Arch%20Supports%20Weight%22%20science%20demonstration%20experiment