Introduction
The easiest way to get a student to learn a concept is to turn it into an experience, that is, an experiment. If the experiment turns into a game to do with classmates or friends, it is even better. In the realization of this project, we set ourselves the objective of demonstrating the concept of balance of bodies.
Objectives
Through the use of simple experimental prototypes, we intend to make the relationship between the body and the position of its centre of gravity identifiable. It is known that a suspended or leaned body is in stable equilibrium if and only if the position of its centre of gravity is vertically aligned with the position of the point of attachment or once its minimum possible height has been reached. We thought to present some simple “homemade” demonstration prototypes that allow us to identify this property and analyse its functioning. Students, therefore, will be invited to participate in the realization of simple experiments, through which to acquire naturally the concept of the centre of gravity.
Materials and products
The aim is to prove the above theories by means of devices and/or systems made using commonly used materials (cardboard, toothpicks, cork stoppers, glue, forks, wood, small metal objects). Easy access to the materials used will allow students to easily create experimental prototypes even in a completely autonomous way, for example at home or at school. This will promote, through a self-made methodology, the understanding of the physical principle as well as the pleasure of discovery.
Below are the photos reproducing some of the demonstration prototypes.
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