exploratorium

Exhibits

KEYWORDS

pendulums

A Pendulum Clock
A Pendulum Clock

At first glance, the giant see-through-erector-set-like structure seems to be a realization of one of Leonardo da Vinci's mechanical inventions.

Where:   This exhibit is not currently on view.
Chaotic Pendulum
Chaotic Pendulum

When you set these pendulums swinging, the motion of each one affects the others.

Where:   Crossroads: Getting Started
Coupled Pendulums
Coupled Pendulums

Start one of these two pendulums swinging and soon you’ll see the other pendulum start swinging, too. Keep watching and you’ll see the two pendulums take turns, alternately swinging energetically and coming to a near standstill.

Where:   Crossroads: Getting Started
Drawing Board
Drawing Board

Draw hypnotically flowing patterns with a swinging table, and watch friction cause the patterns to slowly shrink along a spiral path. 

Where:   Osher Gallery 1: Human Phenomenon
Pendulum Snake
Pendulum Snake

Lift the handle to start this row of pendulums swinging, and then watch as they move in and out of a repeating series of mesmerizing patterns.

Where:   Crossroads: Getting Started
Sand Graph
Sand Graph

Sand traces a pendulum‘s motion.

Where:   Crossroads: Getting Started