Mechanics > Work and Energy > Conservation of Energy
DCS# 1M40.50

MAXWELL'S WHEEL



APPARATUS
Maxwell's wheel
202-15-E2


DESCRIPTION
Release the wheel and it will roll slowly down the string and climb back up almost to its original height, illustrating the conversion of gravitational potential energy to rotational and translational kinetic energy and back.

Hang the suspension bar from a balance or force sensor to show that the tension in the string is not equal to the weight of the wheel.
NOTES
Make sure suspension rod is secure, wheel axle is level, and strings are even.