Question #9

If the top end of the SLINKY is released, allowing it to fall, it will eventually end up totally collapsed and lying on the floor. When it is released two actions will occur simultaneously - it will move toward the floor and it will collapse. This question involves the manner in which it falls, and in particular what the bottom end does when it begins to fall.

When the SLINKY is held by the top end and released, what will bottom end do initially?

• (a) The bottom end will move up initially.
• (b) The bottom end will move down initially.
• (c) The bottom end will remain at the same point for a short time before it begins to move.

As part of this problem, see if you can predict exactly how the SLINKY will fall.

Click here for Answer #9 after April 24, 2000.

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