PIRA 1F30.10 - Inertia of Motion: Air Track

---

Photo shows the demonstration used at the University of Texas at Austin.

---

Concepts Conveyed:

• Compressed air is sprayed from the holes, forming a thin layer on the surface of the track. This simulates a nearly frictionless system.


• Simulate elastic and inelastic collisions.

---

Instructions / Notes:

• This demo includes a three meter air track with a selection of four gliders: two "elastic" and two "inelastic."


• The air track consists of a perforated rail connected to a Pasco air supply.


• Turn on the air supply underneath the table using the red "on/off" switch.

---

Demo Staff:

• Be sure the air track is leveled. The right side of the lecture hall (if facing the audience) is more level than the other side.

---

Last Updated 7/24 - University of Texas at Austin Physics Dept. - All Rights Reserved.