PURPOSE: Model of uncontrolled nuclear chain reaction.
DESCRIPTION: Ping pong balls are positioned on each loaded mousetrap. When a ball is thrown into the box from a hole in the top, it releases the trap which it hits, adding energy to the two balls involved. Each of those balls then hits another trap or two, multiplying the effect. This demonstration was invented by the Walt Disney company in early 1950s as a way to explain to the public how an atomic bomb works.
Click your mouse on the photograph at the left to see a photograph of this demo used in a Physics is Phun program; click your mouse on the photographs at the center or the right to see mpeg videos of the action. The video at the right is better; the one in the center tries to stop, then takes off again!
This demonstration is a real winner!
Backround for the study of the water drop model of the nucleus and the concept of critical mass can be obtained with the following mpeg videos:
SUGGESTIONS:
REFERENCES: (PIRA 7D20.10)
EQUIPMENT: Visible plastic box with 100 mouse traps and 100 ping pong balls, superball.
SETUP TIME: At least three hours. Please notify us a day or more ahead of time when you need this demonstration.
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