8C20.50 - Cosmic Web, Gravitational Waves - LIGO

Code Number:
8C20.50
Demo Title:
Cosmic Web, Gravitational Waves - LIGO
Condition:
Good
Principle:
Cosmology
Area of Study:
Astronomy and Mathematics

Disclaimer

Equipment:
Black Cloth, Salt or Sand, and Gravitational Wave Websites.
Procedure:

Current theory hints at a comic web the determines the distribution of dark matter in the universe.  The demo shows that if you have a uniform distribution there is no clumping of the matter, but if there is a web or framework, the matter distributes along the web.

Sites on gravitational waves can be found on the web.

A simulation of gravitational waves can be made by filling a beaker with some of the reclaimed glycerin we have on hand and then placing a rotating rod in the center that is driven by a variable speed power drill.  Scatter some Lycopodium powder on the surface of the glycerin to enhance the visual effect.  A slow rotation rate is all that is necessary.  The rotating rod must not have any wobble when spinning.  Also see 4F10.10 for the shear force demo that this is used for.

References:
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Wesleyan University Gravitational Waves Ripple Tank Simulation

Disclaimer: These demonstrations are provided only for illustrative use by persons affiliated with The University of Iowa and only under the direction of a trained instructor or physicist.  The University of Iowa is not responsible for demonstrations performed by those using their own equipment or who choose to use this reference material for their own purpose.  The demonstrations included here are within the public domain and can be found in materials contained in libraries, bookstores, and through electronic sources.  Performing all or any portion of any of these demonstrations, with or without revisions not depicted here entails inherent risks.  These risks include, without limitation, bodily injury (and possibly death), including risks to health that may be temporary or permanent and that may exacerbate a pre-existing medical condition; and property loss or damage.  Anyone performing any part of these demonstrations, even with revisions, knowingly and voluntarily assumes all risks associated with them.