RVFM Gauss Gun

This demonstration of the Gauss gun effect uses a 660mm long section of acrylic tube to house rare earth magnets and ball bearings. One end is raised slightly to allow a ball to roll in. When the ball approaches a magnet, it is pulled towards it at high speed. The resulting collosion causes the ball's energy to be transmitted via the magnets and other balls, similar to the action of a 'Newton's cradle' except that the last ball is propelled at a much higher speed than expected. A rubber stopper at the end of the tube prevents the escape of fast moving balls.

The Gauss Gun provides a safe but dramatic demonstration of the acceleration of a body in a magnetic field and the conservation of momentum. It uses groups of high strength neodymium magnets to accelerate steel ball bearings with the whole assembly contained in a closed, transparent plastic tube for safety. A great discussion experiment on the nature and strength of magnetic fields, momentum, conservation of energy etc.

• Provides a dramatic demonstration of the acceleration of a body in a magnetic field
• Uses groups of high strength neodymium magnets to accelerate steel ball bearings
• Assembly is contained in a closed, transparent plastic tube for safety
• A great discussion experiment