Styrofoam backing in the shape of an Iowa map, chalk line
Iowa maps, chalk line

Code Number: 1J10.10

Demo Title: Map of a State

Condition: Good

Principle: Center of Mass

Area of Study: Mechanics

Equipment: 

A map of a state glued onto a Styrofoam backing.

Procedure: 

Hang the Map of the State and find the center of gravity or throw it up into the air and observe it rotating about the center of mass.  LED's may be inserted into the map to show this more visually.  Alternatively, you may also use stick on dots or rings to help observe the center of rotation.

References:

  • Thomas B. Greenslade Jr., "Where is the Center of Mass of Florida?", TPT, Vol. 45, # 6, Sept. 2007, p. 359.
  • Thomas B. Greenslade Jr., "Center of Mass Demonstrations Using Ceiling Tile", TPT, Vol. 30, # 4, April 1992, p. 240.
  • Marvin Ohrimer, "Center of Mass of a Rotating Object", TPT, Vol. 18, # 3, March 1980, p. 231.
  • R. D. Edge, "Center of Mass", A Potpourri of Physics Teaching Ideas - Mechanics, p. 103.
  • Marvin Ohriner, "Center of Mass of a Rotating Object", A Potpourri of Physics Teaching Ideas - Mechanics, p. 100.
  • John L. Roeder, "Activity 1. Designing a Roller Coaster", Teaching About Energy, p. 14.