Physics Demo Manual

Demonstrations are cataloged according to PIRA Bibliography

PLEASE REQUEST DEMOS WELL IN ADVANCE

Due to Physics Building renovations, the lead time to set up demo requests has increased due to the need to transport equipment across campus. Please be kind and let me know well ahead of time what you need.

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Surface Tension: Surface Tension; Surface Tension with Electric Field; Soap Films; Capillary Tubes
Fluid Statics
Fluid Dynamics

Soap Films

Purpose:

To demonstrate the tendency of soap films to reach a 'minimal surface' for the contour presented by the frame, i.e., the surface of the soap film tends toward a state of minimum potential energy.

Procedure:

these demonstrations are difficult for an entire class to see, and hence are better suited for after class viewing. The cube frame gives some very interesting and beautiful surfaces. After it has been dipped, different surfaces can be generated by breaking different portions of the surface. Very large bubbles may be blown with the large coat hanger loop.

Equipment:

Bubble blowers
Soap Film Mix
Soap Frames