Angular Momentum

1. Test the theory of the conservation of angular momentum with the bike wheel.

1. While sitting in a chair that can freely rotate, start spinning the bike wheel and then hold it by the handles so that its direction of angular momentum is vertical.
2. While holding the wheel by the two handles, flip the wheel over so that its angular momentum points in the opposite direction. Notice how the chair will begin to rotate.

2. Test the theory of the conservation of angular momentum with two weights.

1. While sitting in a chair that can freely rotate, hold two weights out at arm's length.
2. Have a partner get the chair spinning and then bring the weights in close to the chest. Notice the increased speed of rotation of the chair.

3. Measure the change of angular momentum in the spinning rod.

1. Measure the length of the rod and its mass. Using a meter stick, measure the halfway point of the falling weight and mark the vertical beam with tape in order to have a reference. Calculate the moment of inertia of the rod.
2. Add 200 g to the end of the string and wind it up to the top. Take notice of where the halfway point of the string is located.
3. Release the weight and measure the amount of time it takes to get to the halfway mark and then again to the bottom. Do this three times and take the average values. Calculate the angular momentum at both points.
4. Increase the weight at the end of the string to 500 g and repeat step 3.3.
5. Increase the weight to 1,000 g and repeat step 3.3.