Skip Navigation
Search
- Sections
- A. General Materials & Mathematics
- B. Statics
- C. Kinematics & Dynamics
- D. Rotational Mechanics
- E. Gravitation & Astronomy
- F. Fluid Mechanics
- G. Vibrations & Mechanical Waves
- H. Sound
- I. Thermodynamics
- J. Electrostatics & Magnetostatics
- K. Electromagnetic Principles
- L. Geometrical Optics
- M. Wave Optics
- N. Spectra & Color
- O. Vision
- P. Modern Physics
Can Crusher - Wall Stability
Purpose
To show how a small change in the geometry of the can wall can dramatically affect its ability to support a load.
Equipment
Aluminum soda can, two sharp pencils, human victim.
Suggestions
Keep your fingers out of the way.
Images
Description
An assistant balances carefully on one foot on an aluminum soft drink can. When the sides of the can are dimpled simultaneously by poking them sharply with pencil tips, the can immediately collapses.
References
(PIRA unavailable.)
-
See pagesb1. center of mass statics
-
See pagesb2. equilibrium of forces & torques
-
See pagesb3. simple machines
-
See pagesb4. elasticity
-
See pagesb1. center of mass statics
-
See pagesb2. equilibrium of forces & torques
-
See pagesb3. simple machines
-
See pagesb4. elasticity
Physics Lab Demos