UIUC Physics Lecture Demo: Mouse Trap on Cart

UIUC Physics
Lecture Demonstration
Database

Demo # 786

Mouse Trap on Cart

ID # 786

Description:

The cart recoils in the opposite direction of the mass thrown off the cart by the mouse trap. Set the trap with a string, and then use a match to burn the string and release the trap.

Picture of Mouse Trap on Cart

Physics Concept:

Mechanics
Newton's Third Law
Action and Reaction

The demonstration takes about 1 minute to perform.