When pigs fly! A fun lab on centripetal force.

Perfect for introducing or reviewing Newton’s laws, the Flying Pig illustrates:

• Why objects move in a circle
• What happens if centripetal force is removed (string cut demonstration)
• The difference between centripetal and “centrifugal” force
• Real-world examples: safe curve speeds, amusement park rides, planetary motion

With its conical pendulum motion, it’s an ideal visual for energy transfer, acceleration, and force vectors.

For All Levels of Physics

From Conceptual Physics to AP Physics C: Mechanics, the Flying Pig adapts to your curriculum:

• Conceptual Physics – Minimal math, focus on velocity, acceleration, energy transfer
• High School Physics – Measure pig’s speed, relate to real-world motion
• AP Physics 1 / Algebra-Based – Civil engineering concepts, banked curves, friction/tension forces
• AP Physics C – Conical pendulum equations, small-angle approximations, real-world constraints

Model Orbital Mechanics & Astronomy

Share this tool between physics and earth science classes to explore:

• Kepler’s Laws and orbital motion
• Elliptical orbits, eccentricity, and conic sections
• Orbital speed changes and Hohmann transfers
• Artificial gravity simulations like astronaut training

Unexpected Chemistry Connections

Yes, even chemistry teachers can use the Flying Pig! Demonstrate:

• Rutherford’s atomic model (electron orbits)
• Why the Bohr model replaced it
• Atomic radius trends (adding weight to shorten orbit radius)

Lab instructions included.

Requires 2 AA Batteries