1J20.00.HTML
1J20.00: CENTER OF GRAVITY - WALKING THE PLANK

PURPOSE: To demonstrate that the system is stable until the combined center of gravity moves beyond the end of the lecture table.

DESCRIPTION: Walk the plank slowly, until the system becomes unstable. A thin rubber sheet under the plank prevents sideways motion.

SUGGESTIONS: Try not to think about the sharks.

REFERENCES:

EQUIPMENT: Heavy (28 kg) wooden plank and small rubber sheet as photographed.

SETUP TIME: None.


Go back to Lecture-Demonstration Home Page