Memory Metal

In this Activity, students compare the properties of nitinol metal wire (known as "memory" metal) and ordinary wire. Using the observed properties, they design (and possibly make) a toy that would use memory metal to operate. This Activity connects toys with science, and allows students to become inventors as they design a toy of their own. This Activity ties in well with a discussion of the properties and structure of metals and alloys, and is an example of a solid-to-solid phase change.