United Scientific Coriolis Effect

This apparatus helps students to understand the Coriolis effect, the phenomenon whereby an object moving on a spinning surface will travel in a curved path.

• The demonstrations that follow will allow students to observe the Coriolis effect on a small scale, then explore how the Earth’s constant rotation influences wind patterns and ocean currents around the world.
• Components:
  • 1. Turntable
  • 2. Erasable tracing surface
  • 3. Ramp
  • 4. Steel balls (2)