Conservation Conservation of Angular Momentum: Rotational Dynamics
Pulling on a Whirligig
PIRA Class: 1Q40.25

Purpose
Observe the conservation of angular momentum as the distribution of the rotating masses changes.

Description
Observe the change in motion of a whirling ball as you pull down on 'counter weights.'
The string of the ball is "threaded" through a glass tube and the opposite end of the string is tied to the counter weights. This allows for varying the radius of revolution. Gravity acting on the counter weights provides the centripetal force/ string tension necessary for circular

Equipment
Ball on a string