D2-03: CANS ON INCLINED PLANE - WITH AND WITHOUT W

ID Code: D2-03
Purpose: Illustrate the effect of moment of inertia on rolling acceleration.
Description: Roll two identical cans from rest down an incline, where one is empty and the other is nearly filled with water. Q: Which gets to the bottom first, or is it a tie? A: The water-filled can reaches the bottom first. Due to its small viscosity, the rotation of the water is limited, and that can acts much like a body sliding without friction down the incline. Using the broom, give the two cans a push up the incline. Which can will roll higher up the incline?
Availability: Available