tables, blocks

 

Code Number: 1D60.56

Demo Title: Parabolic Trajectory - Block and Tables

Condition: Good

Principle: Parabolic Trajectory

Area of Study: Mechanics

Equipment: 

Two tables and some blocks

Procedure:

Start with the tables 1 foot apart.  Place the small block at the edge of one table and hit it with the big block so that it tries to jump the gap.  As long as the gap between tables is larger than the small block, the block will always experience some fall due to gravity and therefore not land on the second table, but fall into the gap after striking the edge of the second table.

References:

  • Mario Belloni and Wolfgang Christian, "Tumbling: From Rally Cars to Toast", TPT, Vol. 50, # 7, Oct. 2012, p. 427.
  • Walter Hellman, "Galilean Tracks in the Physics Lab", TPT, Vol. 49, # 8, Nov. 2011, p. 474.
  • Borislaw Bilash II, David Maiullo, "Impossible Jump", A Demo a Day: A Year of Physics Demonstrations, p. 41.