Heat Engine (rotational)

A conversation of heat energy to kinetic energy which utilizes thermal contraction.

heat contraction, Newton's second law

A demonstration of conversation of heat energy to kinetic energy which utilizes thermal contraction.

Wheel and shade, spotlight

The wheel consists of a light delicately suspended wheel with rubber-band spokes. The lamp is placed so that it heats up a portion of the spokes. When these rubber bands heat up, the contract and thus offset the balance of the wheel, causing it to rotate.

Since the rubber bands tend to stress over time, the spokes become easily damaged with age. This demonstration often needs to be restrung and because this is a long and laborious process, a 3 DAY NOTICE for this demo is required.

Useful Links: Wait a minute! Things expand when they are heated don't they? Ask A Scientist may be able to help you out here.

Updated on: 06/19/13