Description
When the double cone is placed on the V-shaped track, it appears to roll uphill against gravity.
This happens because the center of gravity of the cone is in the middle. On the higher side of the track, the sides are further apart. Due to its unique shape, the cone “sinks” between the sides. The center of gravity of the cone is therefore lower at the highest point of the V-shaped track. So, the cone rolls from low to high, but the center of gravity of the cone moves from high to low. This causes the cone to roll uphill.
For example, have you ever wondered why some chairs or tables wobble? The answer often lies in poor design regarding the center of gravity. Furniture with a low and central center of gravity is more stable and less likely to tip over.
By keeping the center of gravity of race cars low, they are more stable and faster in turns. In robotics, the center of gravity is used to design robots that can walk, climb, or even jump stably.
How do you roll up?
- Place one of the cones on the lowest part of the track.
- Release the cone. What do you see?
