TexNET > Exhibits > Motion > Turntable ..

The Turntable disk rotates like a giant compact disk. A supply of small metal disks, rings, and balls, 7-10 cm in diameter, is scattered around the stationary portion of the table top. Visitors try to keep the rings on their edge spinning on the disk. They discover that a ring spinning on edge may stay on the turntable for a while, orbiting the center. A disk laid flat will move in a straight line as soon as it slides off the turntable. Visitors, especially children, love the challenge of getting the disks and rings to stand on edge while moving around the Turntable.