Question 6
Work in groups to build a model of the gravitational pull between two masses. In this model, the weight of an object on the tablecloth distorts the cloth in a way that models the effect of the gravitational attraction of that object. Place a piece of tablecloth over a hula hoop. Use clips to hold the tablecloth in place. Suspend the hula hoop in some way (as shown in Figure 14.6). Initially put a marble (or small pebble) in the centre and another near the edge. Repeat step 1. Replace the marble (small pebble) in the centre of the tablecloth with a tennis ball (Figure 14.6B). How does the movement of the marble (small pebble) change?
