Squirming Palm

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Known as the waterfall effect, this activity demonstrates adaptation in our visual system. When motion is expected from our brain, like when we look away from something moving, you'll perceive motion from things that are stationary.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
Under 5 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
free per student
Age Range:
Ages 6 - 14
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • Pattern disk (provided in the Assembly section below)
  • White card stock (alternatively, you can print the pattern on plain white paper and then mount it on posterboard)
  • Scissors
  • A black marking pen
  • Variable-speed electric drill (works well because it can be reversed)
  • Machine screw (e.g., 1024, 3 in or 4 in), 2 washers (e.g., SAE 10), and a wingnut (e.g., 10-24) to fit the machine screw, or you can use double-sided tape to attach your disk to your rotator

Keywords

Subjects

  • Life Sciences
    • Human Body
      • The Brain and Nervous System
    • Human Senses and Perception
      • Vision
      • Perception

Other

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  • Free access

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