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Code Number: 2B30.50

Demo Title: Rubber Sheets

Condition: Excellent

Principle: Air Pressure and Surface Area

Area of Study: Fluids

Equipment: 

Suction Cups with Handles and Suction Rings for Soft Drink Cans.

Procedure:

Place the suction cup on a smooth surface and press down to squeeze out the air from between the two surfaces.  Lifting up to 80 pounds should be possible.

Place the suction ring around the bottom of a soda can.  Place the can and ring onto a smooth surface and press down around the ring to squeeze out the air between the ring and the smooth surface.  Theoretically you should be able to lift about 200 pounds with this.  Radius of the ring is 55.6 mm.

The large mat will adhere to a large flat object when pulled up by the handle but will easily come away when lifted by the edges.

References:

  • Martin Gardner, "Invisible Glue", TPT, Vol. 30, #2, Feb. 1992, p. 85.
  • Charles Vivian, "A Radish Vacuum", Science Experiments & Amusements For Children, p. 32.
  • Vicki Cobb and Kathy Darling, "Grab Bag Grabber", Bet You Can!, p. 65.
  • Vicki Cobb and Kathy Darling, "Watertight", Bet You Can't!, p. 61.
  • Bobby Mercer, "Plumber Strength", Junk Drawer Physics, p. 167.