Physics & Astronomy

Fan and "Sail" Cart

Purpose
To show that it is only the net force that determines whether an object accelerates or not.
Location
Room 136, shelf M4
Description
Set the black "sail" perpendicular to the fan and ask the students which way the cart will go when you turn on the fan, then do it. Repeat the procedure with the "sail" removed from the cart.
May also be used without the sail to illustrate the third law (i.e. jet propulsion).