PURPOSE: To show a model of kinetic theory.
DESCRIPTION: Ball bearings are contained in a see-through container, as shown. The image is projected onto a screen by a 45 degree mirror and back light. A piston is vibrated with a function generator and causes the balls to move and simulate the motion of the molecules of a gas. When the amplitude of the motion of the piston is increased the balls move with greater force and greater mean-free-path. This causes the lid on the top of the container to rise and simulate an increase in temperature.
EQUIPMENT: Kinetic theory demo, Pacso function generator and mechanical vibrator, 45 degree mirror and light box, as photographed.
Updated by Jun Qi in 4/5/2000