Device Needed for Chaotic Systems Demonstration

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding or creating devices to demonstrate chaotic systems for college students. Participants share ideas for both commercially available items and DIY projects, exploring various examples of chaotic behavior.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks a desktop double pendulum for a demonstration and expresses a preference for classic examples of chaotic systems.
  • Another participant suggests creating a magnetic pendulum system, which involves using magnets to demonstrate chaotic motion.
  • A different idea presented is using a golf ball on top of a basketball as a simple chaotic system demonstration.
  • Another suggestion is to use a dripping faucet as an example of chaotic behavior.
  • One participant humorously proposes using a lava lamp as a casual demonstration tool during lectures, encouraging student engagement.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing ideas for demonstrating chaotic systems, and there is no consensus on a single preferred method or device.

Contextual Notes

Some suggestions depend on specific materials or setups that may not be universally accessible, and the effectiveness of each proposed demonstration may vary based on context and execution.

Who May Find This Useful

College educators, physics students, and hobbyists interested in chaotic systems and demonstrations.

SphericalCow
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I'm trying to do a demonstration of chaotic systems for college students.

If anybody knows where I can find a desktop double pendulum online / how I can DIY one without woodworking that'd be much appreciated.

I did find the "swinging sticks kinetic sculpture", but I'd prefer a more classic example such as a double pendulum (or any other ideas you might have).
 
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They might also enjoy making a system themselves. Make a pendulum with a magnetic bob, and hang it over the table top so it hangs about an inch above with the North facing down. Put some magnets on the surface at random positions with the north facing up.

https://www.jusleg.com/ChaoticMagneticSuperPendulum/
 
Last edited:
A golf ball sitting atop a basketball is a very simple demonstration of a chaotic system.

So, we are led to believe, is Laura Dern's knuckle.

1702787491965.png
 

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