Mechanics > Rotational Dynamics > Angular Momentum DCS# 1Q40.10

ROTATING STOOL AND MASSES


APPARATUS
rotating stool 202-12-C
two 1 kg masses in bubble wrap
202-04-E

DESCRIPTION
A student holds the masses while standing on the rotating platform.  After the system is set into rotation, the student varies the distance between the masses and the axis of rotation, changing the moment of inertia of the system and thus its angular speed.  The student can also show what happens when the 1-kg masses are released.