Making a pinhole camera in Light, Shadows and images – Class 6 Science Experiment

Chapter Name: Light, Shadows and images

Activity Name: Making a pinhole camera in Light, Shadows and images

Activity Description:

Required Items:

1. PVC pipe (8 cm in diameter, 30 cm in length)
2. PVC pipe (7 cm in diameter, 20 cm in length)
3. Black drawing sheet
4. Oil (1 ml)
5. Two rubber bands
6. Pin
7. A4 sheet

Step by Step Procedure:

1. If PVC pipes are available: Cut a piece of black paper and use a rubber band to attach it like a cap at one end of the larger PVC pipe. If PVC pipes are not available: Take a thick sheet of paper, roll it to form tubes with the same diameter and length as the PVC pipes, and attach the black paper cap as described.
2. Attach a white paper cap at one end of the thinner PVC pipe using a rubber band.
3. Use a pin to make a small hole in the middle of the black paper cap.
4. Place 2 to 3 drops of oil on the white paper cap to make it translucent.
5. Insert the thinner PVC pipe into the larger PVC pipe, making sure the hole in the black paper cap aligns with the white paper cap.
6. The pinhole camera is now ready for use.

Experiment Observations:

1. Arrange a lighted candle in front of the pinhole of the camera.
2. Move the thinner pipe forward and backward until you obtain a clear picture of the candle on the screen of the thinner pipe.
3. Observe the image from the back of the thinner pipe.
   • You will notice that the flame of the candle appears inverted on the screen.
   • This inversion occurs because of the way light enters the pinhole camera.

Precautions:

1. Be cautious when using the pin to avoid any accidental injuries.
2. Handle the lit candle with care to prevent burns or fire hazards.
3. Follow all safety guidelines and adult supervision, especially when using sharp objects or working with fire.

Lesson Learnt from Experiment:

1. The formation of an inverted image on the screen of the pinhole camera demonstrates that light travels in straight lines.
2. The pinhole allows only light rays from specific directions to enter the camera, creating the inverted image.
3. The experiment helps understand the concept of light rays and the formation of images.