Dancing Helix

Description

The Dancing Helix isn't just beautiful, it's loaded with science! The mobile's mesmerizing motion arises from pulsed torsion - twisting type - waves that propagate up and down the length of a series of weighed rods connected by an elastic ribbon (which acts as a torsion spring). This device is both kinetic art and a demonstration of how energy can travel along a series of coupled harmonic oscillators. The waves can arise by the pulsed motor (included), or initiated by hand to create waves of varying lengths which can then be allowed to constructively and deconstructively interfere. Circular polarization, energy propagation, and angular momentum conservation are some of the physics concepts to be explored. The length of each helix is specified. All helices are 11" in diameter. Motor diameter 4". Motor, batteries, and hook for hanging from drop ceiling included.

A wonderfully soothing sculpture! Kids love it!