Rotating platform
Back to 1Q - Rotational Dynamics
PIRA index: 1Q30.10
Description
The rotating platform can be used to show how angular velocity is affected by moment of inertia (large radius vs small radius). It also allows the demonstration of rotational motion/dynamics using compressed air cans or held masses or a spinning bicycle wheel.
Equipment
- rotating platform
- bicycle wheel with motor
- two air duster canisters
- two 1 kg masses
Instructions
Suggestions:
1) Have a student stand on the platform and begin to spin the student slowly. Once the student is balanced and rotating comfortably, have them extend their arms then slow retract them. Have the student try this while holding 500 g or 1 kg masses in each hand. Their angular velocity is higher when their arms are close to their body (smaller moment of inertia).
2) Have a student hold two air duster canisters, pointed in opposite directions in their hands with outstretched arms. When the student activated the canisters, she will begin to rotate slowly.
3) Have a student stand on the platform and hand them a vertically spinning bicycle wheel. Due to conservation of angular momentum, the platform will begin to rotate if the student turns the wheel horizontal. Have the student try to rotate the wheel back to vertical and then to the opposite horizontal.
Keywords
rotating platform, moment, inertia, angular, velocity, acceleration, conservation, angular momentum, air duster, bicycle wheel,
Images & Movies
Figure1
