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Gravitram


Kinetic sculptures lift, roll and drop billiard balls around various pathways.
How it works
Track a ball on its journey round the Gravitram.
Things to try or ask around the exhibit
- Where can you find these mechanisms at home?
- How many different pathways can you see?
- Why are balls released one at a time from the resting places?
- How often does the bell chime?
Background
An electric motor lifts billiard balls up to the top of the Gravitram, so each billiard ball gains potential or stored energy. When a ball is released, its potential energy is converted into moving or kinetic energy. Also, as the ball collides with other balls or parts of the Gravitram, energy is released through sound and friction.
Each pathway in the Gravitram consists of a series of simple mechanisms, including an Archimedian screw, a chain lift and a see saw.
Finding the science in your world
Simple machines are found in everyday home appliances such as lawnmowers, toasters, pendulum clocks, sewing machines, gates, bicycles and many other items!