Trevelyan Rocker

The rocker must be heated until quite hot. Use tongs to handle it. Both rocker and lead pipe remain hot for several minutes after the demonstration.

Lead is toxic. Wash hands thoroughly after handling. The lead pipe is not heated directly by the torch, but wash hands after contact regardless.

The brass rocker is currently missing from the collection. This demo is not available for use.

Purpose

A heated brass rocker placed on a lead pipe oscillates as alternating contact points cause rapid local thermal expansion of the lead. Demonstrates thermomechanical feedback and the high thermal expansion coefficient of lead.

Brass Trevelyan rocker with a T-shaped body and long handle resting across a lead cylinder

Figure 1:

Propane Torch

1

Warning: High Temperature

Warning: Lead Toxicity

Warning: Not Available

Purpose

Safety Warnings

Warning: High Temperature

Warning: Lead Toxicity

Warning: Not Available

Purpose