Tangential Velocity Launcher

A Tangential Velocity Launcher for demonstrating that an object moves tangent to the curve once it leaves its circular path

A marble or bearing can be spun up with the lever in the down position and then released by opening the lever gate. Provided with the instructions to “score a goal”, students tend to “discover” the idea of tangential velocity on their own :)

The lever is held together with a single M3 x 12 mm machine screw. This screw threads itself into the ring piece but is a slip fit on the lever allowing it to move freely. There is a tooth designed into the lever to hold the ring together while spinning up the marble.