Additional Info

• ID Code: Q3-01
• Purpose: To model the structure of a helical molecule
• Description: The spiral structure of DNA was discovered through diffraction. This demonstration shows a simplified model, diffraction through a single (rather than double) helix. Several springs are mounted to enable the laser to be pointed at each in turn, including one distorted to show the effect of changing the angle.
  (photo credit: Mary Chessey, UMD)
• Availability: Available