In need of cool experiments for show called 'Quantum'

They may have some resources or ideas for you. Additionally, a simple experiment you could try is using a laser pointer and a CD to demonstrate interference patterns. Another option is to do a search for "wave demo Slinky" which will bring up lots of experiments in the sidebars. Another interesting experiment to demonstrate counter-intuitive physics is to drop a small bouncy ball onto a larger bouncy ball and see how high it bounces. You could also try using a heavy object dropped on a semi-rigid material to demonstrate the concept of gravity and space-time bending. Finally, contacting Dyson for their fan technology, which utilizes Bernoulli's principle, could also be a great option for your show. Best of luck!
  • #1
Christina Eddowes
Hello Everyone!

My name's Christina and I work at the Everyman Theatre in Liverpool... We have a show coming up in the main space at the beginning of July that's going to be performed by YEP (Young Everyman and Playhouse)... and hopefully it's going to be a love story about all things Physics-y ...We need to get the audience hooked into the idea of discovery and experimentation as quickly as possible, and we thought the best way to do that was to show them some cool (beginner level) experiments in the general areas of waves, particles and cosmology... As we have a very small budget, if any of you super-clever bods out there have any cool experiments or pieces of equipment that you've knocked up that you would be willing to lend to us for a couple of weeks, in exchange for some free advertising or free tickets, we'd be really grateful!

...we've already sourced some Chladni plates, but anything with lights/sound/smoke or water...even if it's only vaguely related to physics, would be much appreciated! ...And if anyone has managed a mock double-slit experiment, or anything that can demonstrate space-time, so much the better! All suggestions appreciated!

Best wishes,

Chris :)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Apologies, and thank you! ...As you can tell, I'm new to forums! :)
 
  • #3
Laser pointer and CD for interference.
 
  • Like
Likes mister mishka
  • #4
A search on "wave demo Slinky"





lots of experiments in the sidebars there

a classic
 
  • Like
Likes Christina Eddowes
  • #6
As an example of something counter-intuitive which is easily explained by physics, I like the effect of dropping a small bouncy ball in place on top of a big bouncy ball. When they both hit the floor, it's quite astonishing how high the small ball can bounce (much higher than it was dropped - I think it's up to about 9 times higher in theory for a very bouncy ball). Don't try this with anything breakable nearby, as a slight misalignment can result in the small ball going a long way!
 
  • Like
Likes Christina Eddowes
  • #7
This demonstration can be done on a budget. (Is this really a demonstration of Bernoulli's principle? Well, I'm pretty sure it fits in there somewhere or another anyway.)



There are some Dyson brand fans that work on this sort of principle (in part).
 
  • Like
Likes Christina Eddowes
  • #8
"Gravity sounds mighty but tis the weakest."

1. Heavy object dropped on semi-rigid matrerial, it would stretch but hold.

2. Maglev
——————
"Space is bent by a massive object"

1. Heavier and lighter ball-like objects placed on elastic-y surface. Heavier objects make bigger "wells".

2. Roll marbles on the surface, they would get caught in the well. If they are rolling with enough speed their path will be bent but they'll emerge from the well. Light bent by gravity.

3. If there's a heavy ball with a deep well, or if the marble isn't rolled with enough speed, it'd get caught in the well. A black hole.
 
  • #9
Christina Eddowes said:
Hello Everyone!

My name's Christina and I work at the Everyman Theatre in Liverpool... We have a show coming up in the main space at the beginning of July that's going to be performed by YEP (Young Everyman and Playhouse)... and hopefully it's going to be a love story about all things Physics-y ...We need to get the audience hooked into the idea of discovery and experimentation as quickly as possible, and we thought the best way to do that was to show them some cool (beginner level) experiments in the general areas of waves, particles and cosmology... As we have a very small budget, if any of you super-clever bods out there have any cool experiments or pieces of equipment that you've knocked up that you would be willing to lend to us for a couple of weeks, in exchange for some free advertising or free tickets, we'd be really grateful!

...we've already sourced some Chladni plates, but anything with lights/sound/smoke or water...even if it's only vaguely related to physics, would be much appreciated! ...And if anyone has managed a mock double-slit experiment, or anything that can demonstrate space-time, so much the better! All suggestions appreciated!

Best wishes,

Chris :)
Have you tried contacting the University of Liverpool's Physics outreach group, or LJMU's http://www.astro.ljmu.ac.uk/outreach?
 

FAQ: In need of cool experiments for show called 'Quantum'

What is the concept of "quantum"?

The concept of "quantum" refers to the branch of physics that deals with the behavior and interactions of particles on a very small scale, such as atoms and subatomic particles. It also includes the theories of quantum mechanics, which explain the behavior of these particles.

What are some examples of cool experiments related to quantum?

Some examples of cool experiments related to quantum include the double-slit experiment, quantum entanglement, and the photoelectric effect. These experiments help to demonstrate the counterintuitive and mysterious nature of quantum mechanics.

How can I conduct a safe and effective quantum experiment?

To conduct a safe and effective quantum experiment, it is important to have a clear understanding of the theory behind the experiment, as well as proper training and safety precautions. It is also crucial to have the necessary equipment and materials, and to follow all instructions and protocols carefully.

What are some potential real-world applications of quantum experiments?

Quantum experiments have the potential to lead to groundbreaking advancements in technology, such as quantum computing, quantum cryptography, and quantum sensors. They can also help us better understand and manipulate the behavior of particles, leading to advancements in fields such as medicine and materials science.

Are there any ethical concerns surrounding quantum experiments?

Some ethical concerns surrounding quantum experiments include the potential for misuse of quantum technology, as well as the potential impact on privacy and security. It is important for scientists to consider these ethical implications and ensure responsible use of quantum experiments.

Similar threads

A Experiments probing the macroscopic limits of QM
2
Replies
45
Views
10K
A Can anyone give me the details of creating a cat state in Circuit QED?
Replies
16
Views
2K
Mind over matter reality or myth?
2
Replies
54
Views
10K
Physics behind quantum computer
Replies
5
Views
2K
B Two-Slit Experiment And Varying Electron Momentum
Replies
3
Views
2K
B Doesn't the choice of measurement prove free will
2
Replies
65
Views
5K
I A Bold New Take on Quantum Theory
Replies
25
Views
3K
Admissions Chances with a Low/mid GPA but high PGRE and research experience
Replies
2
Views
2K
I Two recent tests of loop quantum gravity theory
Replies
15
Views
2K
A Quantum nonlocality and "spooky action at a distance"
4
Replies
139
Views
7K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top