Gaussian Gun

Description

Includes

Four neodymium magnets, four magnet holders, 10 steel balls, low-friction metal track with open end for launching balls and instructions with theory

Show how one ball starting at rest can gain enough energy to hurl another across the room.

Study projectile motion as well as conservation of energy and momentum. Investigate the properties of magnetism.

• Four magnets and 10 steel balls are aligned on a low-friction linear track
• A slowly rolling ball at the far end of the track is pulled forward by magnetic force
• Accelerated to three or four times its original speed, the ball collides with a pair of balls set further down the track
• The second ball is propelled outward; attracted by the second magnet, the second ball sends a third ball careening even faster
• When this happens four times in a row, the last ball flies free

Order Info

Balls: 0.75 in. dia. (1.9cm).

Specifications

• Product Type: Gaussian Gun
• For Use With (Application): Study projectile motion as well as conservation of energy and momentum, investigate the properties of magnetism
• Includes: Four neodymium magnets, four magnet holders, 10 0.75 in. dia. Steel balls, low-friction metal track with open end for launching balls and instructions with theory