WEEK 7: CENTRIPETAL FORCE

HOW DO YOU BEND LIGHT?

A. Materials needed:

  1. A glass jar or transparent plastic bottle
  2. 3 cups of water
  3. Liquid or dish soap
  4. Clean water

B. Instructions:

1. Fill more than half of the jar with water.

2. Pour in dish soap and then close the lid.

3. Swirl the jar for about 5 seconds, holding one hand o top and one below.

4. Set it down on the table and watch.

SO WHAT CAUSES THE TORADO?

When you spin the water, a vortex (circular current of fluid with an opening) is formed. Centripetal force then causes the water to spin around ths vortex, manking a mini tornado.

Centripetal force is the net force that acts on a body to keep it moving along a circular path.

TAKING IT FURTHER

Repeat this experiment changing the speed with which you swirl the jar. How does this affact the strength of the tornado?