Slinky spring, 80x80mm

Slinky spring, 80x80mm

Item code
MAS-01923

Have fun and learn about how waves and springs function. Extends to 10m.

$26.50 $29.15

You'll have hours of fun with this giant metal spring. Not only that, you'll learn about how waves and springs function!

Generations of children have been both entertained and educated by slinky springs just like this one! Watch as it walks down stairs, 'bounces' back and forth between your hands and appears to defy gravity when dropped to the ground.

This spring is a fun way to see the effects of spring motion and watch how waves propagate.


What You Get
Metal Spring measuring 80x80mm (L x diameter) when wound and approximately 10m when extended.

How Does it Work?
The spring appears to walk down stairs by transferring energy along its length via longitudinal waves. The spring follows itself over and results in periodic motion until it reaches the bottom of the stairs.

The spring appears to levitate when drop vertically towards the ground. This is because the change in tension on the spring must propagate to the base of the spring from the top. A lag time of approximate 0.3 seconds creates the impression that the spring is levitating before both ends begin to fall to the ground.
Teach
  • Springs
  • Waves
  • Period of Oscillation
  • Harmonic Motion