Maxwell's Wheel

The Maxwell's Wheel is a spoked wheel suspended from a rod and used to demonstrate the conservation of energy by converting kinetic into potential energy. Winding the string lifts the wheel into position and it gathers kinetic energy as it falls, gaining momentum and spinning faster during the descent. Once it reaches the end of the string, the wheel will start to reverse its route, losing the kinetic energy again as it climbs. The whole apparatus is on a set of scales, allowing the inertial force to be measured during acceleration. Maxwell's Wheel produces highly visible results to validate kinetic energy being transformed into potential energy.

Features of the Maxwell's Wheel

• Large moment of inertia for conserving energy demonstrations
• Spoked wheel suspended from a rod
• Sturdy string holds the wheels in position
• Creates kinetic energy as it falls, accelerating the spin of the wheel
• Stops at either end prevent the wheel from coming free
• Strings rewind around the axle when at lowest point
• Wheel starts to climb and loses kinetic energy
• Placed on scales to measure the inertial force
• Complete with stand and suspension rod

Technical Specifications of the Maxwell's Wheel

• Moment of inertia: 10kg cm²
• Diameter of wheel: 130mm
• Mass of wheel: 370g
• Suspending rod: 370 x 12mm

Compatible Equipment for the Maxwell's Wheel

• 2 x Stainless Steel Rod 1000mm
• Stand with H-Shaped Base
• 4 x Universal Clamp
• Stainless Steel Rod 280mm
• Trigger Device for Maxwell's Wheel
• 2 x Photo Gate
• Digital Counter/Timer (230V, 50/60Hz) OR Digital Counter/Timer (115V, 50/60Hz)

Delivery Information

The Maxwell's Wheel is usually delivered within 3 to 5 working days of ordering via UPS courier.

If you would like up to the minute delivery and tracking information for your order, please contact the Lab World Customer Care Team by telephone on 020 7501 1105 or by email using the form below. We look forward to helping you with your enquiry.