The catenary is the shape of a string of uniform linear mass density hung between two points. I will demonstrate that this shape is given by the graph of a hyperbolic cosine.
I will demonstrate how the speed of light can be estimated using a microwave. This is done by heating up some marshmallows for a short time, and measuring the distance between intensities between cooked and raw marshmallow. This gives us a wavelength that is multiplied by the manufactured specified frequency.
I will demonstrate how to use an arrangement of 8 triangular prisms to create a cloaked region of space (when viewed from an appropriate angle).
When we place Pyrex glass in a large container filled with water, we are able to observe the piece of Pyrex glass submerged within the container, as we would expect. However, when we repeat the process using vegetable oil, instead of water, the piece of Pyrex glass seems to disappear within the vegetable oil. This is because Pyrex glass and vegetable oil have the same index of refraction. By...
Will show how to make 3D glasses. Fun activity.
The opportunity doesn't often arise for you to pluck out your students' hair without negative repercussions, but this demo is exciting enough for students to offer it freely! Because light acts as a wave, we see a diffraction pattern when it passes over a small slit or obstruction. Using only a laser pointer, measuring tape, and a ruler, you can measure the width of a human hair by analyzing...
Demonstration of making a speed boat using the power of surface tension. (Credit to Mr. Wizard's Supermarket Science!)
I built a simple DC motor to show how direct current can be used to create an electromagnet that has the ability to alternate the direction of the magnetic field in order to continuously rotate. I will also show that this changing magnetic field can be picked up by a guitar. The demo will show how to change the rotational speed of the motor along with the direction of rotation.
This demo will illustrate the principle of buoyancy in a very unusual way.
Supplies: Chocolate chips, clear carbonated soda, glass container.
