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In this activity, learners can observe chaotic motion. A magnet tied to a piece of string makes a pendulum, which swings over three sets of fixed magnets. The force of gravity plus magnetic attraction and repulsion combine to influence the pendulum in very complex ways, resulting in unpredictable motion. Two hallmarks of chaotic systems are unpredictability and a sensitive dependence on initial conditions. Ask learners if they can think of any other systems that are chaotic!
- 5 to 10 minutes
- 30 to 45 minutes
- $5 - $10 per group of students
- Ages 14 - adult
- Activity, Demonstration
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- A ring stand and a clamp
- 4 to 6 ceramic magnets (available at Radio Shack)
- Paint, masking tape, or correction fluid
- Fishing line or string
Subjects
-
Physical Sciences
-
Motion and Forces
- Gravity
- Projectile Motion
- Center of Gravity
-
Motion and Forces
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Rights:
- All rights reserved, Exploratorium,
Funding Sources:
- NEC
- NSF
- California Department of Education