Create a simple pinhole camera using a shoebox to understand how light travels in straight lines. Observe how the image size changes with varying distances between the pinhole and the screen.
If the distance between the pinhole and the screen increases, then the size of the image will also increase.
As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases.
Cut a small square in one end of the shoebox.
Cover the square with aluminum foil and tape it securely.
Use a needle to poke a tiny hole in the center of the foil.
Cut a piece of wax paper and tape it to the inside of the opposite end of the box.
Darken the room and point the pinhole towards a light source.
Look at the wax paper screen to see the image projected.
Move the screen closer or further from the pinhole and observe changes in image size.
Record your observations and repeat the experiment to confirm results.
The image on the wax paper screen will appear inverted and will change in size as the distance between the pinhole and the screen is adjusted. A greater distance will result in a larger image.
Distance between pinhole and screen
Size of the image
Size of the pinhole, Size of the shoebox, Light source
Be careful when using scissors and needles to avoid injury.
Use diagrams to explain how light travels in straight lines.
Include photos of your pinhole camera and the images it projects.
Prepare a simple explanation of how cameras work using pinhole principles.
Light travels in straight lines, so the top of the object projects to the bottom of the screen and vice versa.
Yes, any similar-sized box will work as long as it's sturdy and opaque.
A larger pinhole will make the image blurrier because more light rays enter from different angles.
