A demonstration using the concept of Joule heating to show Wein's Law and the AC concept of a step-down transformer. Classes Used: PHYS 100, PHYS 153, ASTR 101, ASTR 201

Blackbody radiation, transformer (AC), Wein's law

A demonstration using the concept of Joule heating to show Wein's Law and the AC concept of a step-down transformer.

Nail burning apparatus, nails, leather gloves, eye protection

This apparatus can be plugged directly into the wall, but it is often more useful to vary the voltage (Using the variac, bottom of red closet). Place the nail in the holder and clamp so that the handles are held together by the nail and the screws. Increase the voltage so that the nail glows. By varying the voltage it is possible to see the nail glow red and then orange. When the nail is bright orange it will melt in half, causing the handles to spring apart. It is possible at this point to weld the nail back together so that it can be reused.

Even after the nail regains it's original colour it is still hot enough to burn you. Use the leather gloves. Updated on: Jan 24, 2017