Wilberforce Pendulum

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In this activity, learners build a Wilberforce Pendulum, a special coupled pendulum in which energy is transferred between two modes of vibration, longitudinal ("bounce') and torsional ("twist"), on a spring. The Wilberforce Pendulum is a fascinating display of energy transformation. Educators can pre-assemble the pendulum and use it for demonstration purposes or engage learners in the building process.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$10 - $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 11 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Demonstration
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Spring (slinky, loose, not stiff)
  • 1 piece of 1/2 in PVC pipe, 2 ft long
  • 1 piece of 1/2 in PVC pipe, 7 in long
  • 1 piece of 1/2 in PVC pipe, 4 in long with slit cut to hold spring
  • 5 PVC 1/2 in 90 deg elbows
  • 2 piece of 1/2 in PVC pipe, 5 in long
  • 2 piece of 1/2 in PVC pipe, 3 in long
  • 1 PVC 1/2 in T
  • 3/16 in dowel, 6 in long
  • 2 micro binder clips
  • 3 mini binder clips
  • 2 small binder clips

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Mechanical Engineering
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
      • Potential and Kinetic Energy
      • Energy and Power
      • Work and Machines
    • Motion and Forces
      • Machines
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Mass and Weight
    • Vibration and Waves
      • Wave Properties
      • Wave Motion
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations

Informal Categories

  • Toys

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:

  • Rathjen, Don

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Exploratorium, 2009