Ideas for making a Physics Demonstration?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on creating engaging physics demonstrations within a budget of $600-$1000 for a lab class. Suggestions include constructing a Van De Graaff generator, an inverted pendulum, and a DIY spectrometer using a Pringles can and an old CD-ROM as a diffraction grating. The use of LabVIEW is highlighted as a potential tool for enhancing these demonstrations, particularly in conjunction with experiments like Eddy currents using cow magnets and aluminum tubes.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of physics concepts such as electromagnetism and mechanics.
  • Familiarity with LabVIEW software for data acquisition and control.
  • Knowledge of materials suitable for building demonstrations, such as magnets and aluminum.
  • Experience with optical principles, particularly diffraction and spectroscopy.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the construction and operation of Van De Graaff generators.
  • Explore the principles of inverted pendulum systems and their applications in control theory.
  • Learn how to build and calibrate a DIY spectrometer using common household items.
  • Investigate advanced features of LabVIEW for integrating sensors and data visualization in physics experiments.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics educators, lab instructors, and students interested in hands-on learning experiences and demonstrations in physics. It is particularly useful for those looking to enhance their teaching methods with engaging and interactive projects.

csnsc14320
Messages
57
Reaction score
1
For my lab class we have to make some sort of physics demonstration in our machine shop with a budget of ~$600-$1000. I was wondering if anyone on here had some suggestions as to some cool/fun things to make?

Things along the lines of Van De Graaf generators, inverted pendulums, etc. can be made (anything that isn't too easy and can be used to demonstrate some topic of physics)

Also, we were taught to use LabVIEW last quarter so if that opens up any other possibilities, I'm interested in hearing some ideas!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
We have an excellent demo of Eddy currents: 2 cow magnets (one with the pieces opposing to have a near-zero net field) and a close-fitting tube of aluminum. One magnet falls through normally, the other takes about 10x as long.
 
An idea I just had today--I want to attempt building a cheap spectrometer from a Pringles can (using an old CD-ROM as a diffraction grating).
 

Similar threads

Graduate Could the Laws of Physics Be Proportional to Entropy?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
Can You Create a Physics Costume for an Anime Convention?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
6K
High School How can I make my friend love physics?
  • · Replies 26 ·
Replies
26
Views
4K
Graduate Need ideas for physics project
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Physics Looking to pivot to physics at 31, could use some guidance
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
I want to help Physics education. What should I do?
  • · Replies 76 ·
3
Replies
76
Views
8K
High School What Physics Experiment Can Combine Computers, Soccer, or Music?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Studying Physics intrigues me but Math makes more sense. What to study?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
How Can I Improve My DIY Van de Graaff Generator to Prevent Charge Leakage?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Undergrad Who was the first to make a Stern-Gerlach experiment with two magnets?
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K