The Pedagogical Representation of Mass Functions with LEGO and their Origin

TL;DR

This paper introduces a creative LEGO-based experiment to teach mass functions, demonstrating that LEGO mass distributions can qualitatively and quantitatively resemble cosmic mass functions, thereby enhancing interdisciplinary science education.

Contribution

It presents an innovative LEGO experiment that models cosmic mass functions, bridging hands-on learning with astrophysical concepts.

Findings

LEGO mass functions are comparable to cosmic mass functions.

The experiment enhances experiential learning in science education.

Discussion of gravitation's role in mass distribution continuity.

Abstract

We promote the teaching of mass functions as an integral part of an interdisciplinary science education. Mass functions characterize the frequency distributions of objects with different masses on all cosmic scales. We intend to enhance experiential learning of this concept with a creative LEGO brick experiment for a diverse student audience. To our surprise, the LEGO mass function is not only qualitatively but also quantitatively comparable to mass functions found across the Universe. We also discuss the relation between gravitation and mass distributions as a possible explanation for the continuity of the universal mass function.