LeBron James' Verizon science experiment

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SUMMARY

The Verizon advertisement featuring LeBron James prominently displays a torsional pendulum, which is a key instrument in the physics lab setting. The discussion identifies the educational material as "Physics" by John D. Cutnell and Kenneth W. Johnson, specifically focusing on Chapter 10, which covers Simple Harmonic Motion and Elasticity. The students are studying section 10.2, which explains the concept of uniform circular motion using a model that includes a small ball on a rotating turntable. This context highlights the practical application of physics concepts in a visually engaging manner.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Simple Harmonic Motion
  • Familiarity with Elasticity concepts
  • Knowledge of uniform circular motion
  • Basic physics terminology related to pendulums and turntables
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of Simple Harmonic Motion in depth
  • Explore the mechanics of torsional pendulums
  • Study the applications of turntables in physics experiments
  • Examine the educational approaches in physics using multimedia advertisements
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators looking for engaging teaching tools, and anyone interested in the intersection of advertising and science education.

Brutonos
In the current Verizon ad featuring LeBron James in a physics lab, there is an instrument displayed prominently in front of each student. What is it?
 
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This one?
 
Borg said:
This one?

Yes
 
Some kind of a torsional pendulum. Unless you mean something else.
 
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Borek said:
Some kind of a torsional pendulum. Unless you mean something else.
Thanks. I was wondering if anyone knew the name of the instrument. Much appreciated.
 
Borek said:
Some kind of a torsional pendulum. Unless you mean something else.
I don't think so.

The student has his book open to: Page 288 Chapter 10 Simple Harmonic Motion and Elasticity
After some googling, I found the book: Physics, By John D. Cutnell, Kenneth W. Johnson

I believe they are studying section 10.2

10.2 SIMPLE HARMONIC MOTION AND THE REFERENCE CIRCLE
...
The model consists of a small ball attached to the top of a rotating turntable. The ball is
moving in uniform circular motion...on a path known as the reference circle.
...​

Figures 10.7 & 10.8 show visually what they are studying.

So it's just a spinning thing.
I'm afraid I don't know any fancy names for something that spins, that isn't shaped like a table.
Actually, there are some tables shaped like that. (Google: very long dining tables)
I'm going to say it's a "turntable".
 
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