8A10.20 Black and Yellow Sphere

Demo Description:

This demo is a large sphere painted with a different color on each side, to demonstrate the changing phases of the moon.

Equipment:

  • Black and Yellow Sphere
  • Rope and clip for hanging

Demo location: H132-B4

Caution / Safety Info:

Please see the Safety Information page (link) regarding the following risks associated with this demonstration:

  • general safety practices

Setup Procedure:

  1. Hang the sphere from the ceiling in the classroom. Make sure it is at a height that can be reached by the lecturer without assistance.

Demonstration Procedure:

  1. Point out how the sphere is half black, half yellow. explain that this sphere is a visual representation of the moon.
  2. Rotate the sphere slowly to different angles, showing that only parts of one of the painted sides can be seen. The different angles can be used to demonstrate the different phases of the moon.