Mechanics: Pail of Water

PIRA Class: 1D50.40

Purpose:
To demonstrate centripetal forces and centripetal acceleration associated with circular motion.

Description:
Fill bucket ~2/3rds full of water. Swing bucket in a vertical circular path demonstrating that the water remains in the bucket upside down. Invite a student to swing the bucket and ask them to feel the difference between their pulling force when the bucket is at the top vs at the bottom of the circle.

NOTE: Time required for one successful bucket revolution is ~1 second. 

Equipment:
Bucket with a sturdy handle

Location:
Shelf 123