PURPOSE: To model gravity as the curvature of the fabric of space-time.
DESCRIPTION: A large bucket (actually a large planter pot) has a smooth, flat surface of tightly stretched latex. A heavyweight lead ball is placed on top of the latex membrane and forces a curvature in the previously flat surface. The deformed surface has the shape of a deep well and models Einstein's interpretation of gravity as the curvature of space-time. See photo above. With practice a small, lightweight ball can be launched by hand and made to travel in an elliptical orbit around the lead ball. Careful observation reveals that as the lightweight ball orbits the lead ball a small but perceptible interaction between the two masses occurs.
EQUIPMENT: Curved Space Bucket and balls, as photographed.
Updated by Jun Qi in 3/20/2000