1J20.65 - Balancing Soda Can

Take a soda can with no dents and add approximately 165 ml of water.  You should be able to balance the can on the beveled lower edge with this amount.  Add or subtract water as necessary for cans from different manufacturers.
Code Number:
1J20.65
Demo Title:
Balancing Soda Can
Condition:
Excellent
Principle:
Center of Mass
Area of Study:
Mechanics
Equipment:
Soda Can with beveled ring, water.
Procedure:

Take a soda can with no dents and add approximately 165 ml of water.  You should be able to balance the can on the beveled lower edge with this amount.  Add or subtract water as necessary for cans from different manufacturers.

References:
  • Andrew Davis Cahoon, "Water Bottle Stability", TPT, Vol. 61, #9, Dec. 2023, p. 785.
  • Said Shakeerin, "Balanced Can", TPT, Vol. 51, #9, Dec. 2013, p. 566.
  • Richard Morandi, "With A Grain Of Salt", TPT, Vol. 17, # 3, Mar. 1979, p. 152.
  • Vincent Buckwash, "Ways to Demonstrate Center of Gravity", TPT, Vol. 14, # 1, Jan. 1976, p. 39.
  • M- 472, "Center of Mass, Soda Can Balance", DICK and RAE  Physics Demo Notebook

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