Deluxe Centripetal Force Apparatus, University III Model || 98-

Deluxe Centripetal Force Apparatus, University III Model

The University III Deluxe Centripetal Force Apparatus is a precision instrument for the quantitative measurement of centripetal force and moment of inertia. Designed for advanced college and university physics labs, it enables students to collect, analyze, and compare accurate experimental data, making it ideal for studying the dynamics of rotational motion.

Measurement Principle

The apparatus consists of a mass supported by a horizontal cross arm attached to a vertical shaft. As the shaft is rotated, the mass swings outward under the influence of centripetal motion and is opposed by the restoring force of a coiled spring connected to the shaft. The cross arm is counterbalanced to ensure stable and uniform rotation during measurement.

The speed of rotation is easily determined by visually counting the number of revolutions per minute. At each specific speed, the mass assumes a measurable radius of rotation indicated by a reference pointer. From these measured values, students calculate the centripetal force and compare it with the static force required to displace the mass to the same radius using the included weight hanger and ball-bearing pulley.

Quantitative Design Features

• Thumb-and-forefinger control using a knurled lower shaft for smooth torque application
• Safe, easily countable rotational speed with spring and mass optimized for student use
• Precision-balanced cross arm with adjustable counterweight for reproducible measurements
• Vertical rod serves as a radius vector for exact radius adjustment
• Low-friction ball-bearing pulley for accurate spring force measurement
• Heavy-duty base (150 × 410 mm) with three adjustable leveling feet
• Horizontal arm positioned approximately 45 cm above base
• Total apparatus weight: 4.5 kg (10 lb)
• Compatible with standard slotted weight set (required, not included)
• Includes detailed setup and measurement instructions

Moment of Inertia Measurement Accessory

The included Moment of Inertia Accessory consists of a 34 cm threaded rod designed to accept slotted weights that can be securely clamped along its length. When mounted at the top of the vertical shaft, the rod and attached masses form a variable-inertia system for rotational analysis.

To perform the experiment, the weight hanger and weights are allowed to fall, accelerating the system. By measuring the change in the hanger’s position over time, users can calculate the moment of inertia and verify the relationship between torque, angular acceleration, and mass distribution.