I1-32. Rubber Band Contraction During Heating

Purpose

To demonstrate that rubber contracts when heated.

Equipment

Long rubber band (in refrigerator), 500g mass, stand, and heat gun.

Images

Description

A 500 gram mass hangs from a rubber band which is connected to a rigid support. Using the heat gun, apply heat to the entire length of the rubber band, causing it to contract and pull up the weight.

References

J. B. Brown, Thermodynamics of a Rubber Band, AJP 31, 397 (1963).