Demonstration Manual

Rotational Dynamics

DRD 07.1 - Centripetal Force

Objective:

- Illustrate the effects of centripetal force.

Apparatus:

• Rotator
• Governor
• Spherical metal hoop

Method:

The governor and metal hoop are spun on the rotator.

Note:

- The metal hoop distorts to show oblateness in a rotating non-rigid sphere such as the earth.

- Governor demonstrates the tremendous force exerted.