The Cool Physics of 7 Classic Toys

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The Cool Physics of 7 Classic Toys
Natalie Wolchover, Life's Little Mysteries Staff Writer
Date: 01 December 201

Compared with the allure of video games, the classic toys of yore may seem boring to today's kids. But in fact, they aren't quite as mundane as they seem: Many of these toys embody important physical concepts, and playing with them helps children develop an intuitive understanding of the world around them — something that cannot be gleaned from the virtual worlds of modern gaming.

To learn the underlying physics of your favorite classic toys, read on.
● Spinning Tops
● Plasma Lamps
● Slinky - To quote a character in The Incredibles: "That was totally wicked!"
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How does a slinky fall when extended by its own weight and then released? We discover the surprising answer using a slow motion camera that records 300 frames per second. Answer link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKb2tCtpvNU

For a great explanation, check out Rhett Allain's analysis here: http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2011/ ... ng-slinky/

● Drinking Birds
● Model Rockets
● Magnets
● Potato Batteries

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The Inspiring, Nerdy Toys of A. C. Gilbert
Early toys got kids interested in science and engineering through experimentation
By Rose Eveleth | December 24, 2011

Before video games and robotics competitions, toys were much simpler: girls got dolls; boys got model trains and bicycles. Toys that promoted learning and experimentation were rare until one inventor, Alfred Carlton (“A. C.”) Gilbert, started making toys that taught children about science and engineering. His most famous, the Erector set, became one of the best -selling toys of its day and inspired children across the country to build everything from bridges to robots.

View the slideshow of classic toys