Archimedes' screw, also known as the water screw

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Archimedes' screw, also known as the water screw, screw pump or Egyptian screw, is a machine used for transferring water from a low-lying body of water into irrigation ditches. Water is pumped by turning a screw-shaped surface inside a pipe. Archimedes screws are also used for materials such as powders and grains. Moreover, Archimedes screws could produce power if they are driven by flowing fluid instead of lifting fluid (Archimedes screw turbines/generators). Although commonly attributed to Archimedes, there is some evidence that the device had been used in Ancient Egypt long before his time. Even though the Archimedes’ screw was invented in ancient times, it has been adapted throughout time. Due to the simplicity of how it works, the Archimedes’ screw can be environmentally friendly by being powered by a windmill. The lowest portion of the screw just dips into the water, and as it is turned a small quantity of water is scooped up into the tube. As the screw turns, the water slides along the tube. Meanwhile more water is scooped up at the end of the tube and then it slides along, and so on until the water comes out the top of the tube . This 3-D model of the Archimedes' screw can be used as a part of the activity during the science classes in the primary school. Suggested class level - senior classes. Skills: Experimenting, predicting, estimating, measuring. Activity: Water normally falls downwards due to gravity. If you want water to go in another direction you have to apply pressure to it. Place one end of the screw in the bowl of coloured water, with the other end resting on the higher bowl. Turn the screw slowly. Water goes into the tube. Water comes out the top of the tube and falls into the bowl. Water comes out the top of the tube and falls into the bow. The screw only works when it is turned in one direction - in the opposite direction to the winding of the tubing. Otherwise the water will not get scooped up.