Levitron

 

Levitron Demo Picture

Tricks to making it work

  • Put just enough weight on the top so that it doesn’t lift
    off the pad while raising top to levitation height; too much weight causes
    top to drop back down.
  • After attempting to level the base, take a few test runs
    and observe the tops tendencies. If top tends to fly off on one particular
    side, raise the base on that side by twisting corresponding leg.
  • Many people can’t spin a top- use electric top spinner.

 

Turntable

 

Turntable Demo Picture

  • Used in uniform circular motion lab, coefficient of static
    friction is calculated and then used to predict maximum rpm at which car will
    remain on table.
  • Adjust rpm with 5 amp, regulated DC power supply.

Location

  • Turntable and car in L02, section B4.
  • Power supply in L35, section F1.

 

Center of Percussion

 

Center of Percussion Demo Picture

  • Tap hanging meter stick, with hammer, at various locations.
    Tap will cause meter stick to slide across parallel rods if tap occurs above
    or below center of percussion. If tap occurs at center of percussion
    the tap will not cause the meter stick to slide.(Meter stick will
    slide do to swinging motion, however.)
  • Ring stands, clamps, and meter sticks located in L34

 

Bike Wheel Gyro

Bike Wheel Gyro Demo Picture

  • Clutch mechanism allows demonstrator to spin wheel just
    by rotating handle.
  • Use in conjunction with rotating stool for a nice (visceral)
    demo of conservation of angular momentum.
  • Located in L02, section D4