Equipment:
Theory: Systems with more than one degree of freedom, such as a double pendulum (2 degrees of freedom), generally exhibit chaotic motion. Chaotic motion is characterized by a great sensitivity to initial conditions, and non-repeatable oscillations.
Description: The Pendumonium consists of a magnet-mounted cross-piece into which as many as 4 of 5 included elements can be snapped. 68 different configurations are possible, ranging from 1 to 4 degrees of freedom. Using it is easy; simply construct the configuration you want by snapping in the appropriate parts, mount it vertically using the magnet, and give it a good push.
Setup time: 3 minutes.
References: (available in the demo room)