The videos below were recorded from a simple experiment in the patterns created by sound waves interacting with water. The science of cymatics,  as it’s known, refers to the measurement and analysis of the physical properties of sound waves. A classic illustration of this is the Chladni plate, a device that allows you to visualize the manifestations of sound waves and the resulting patterns within a solid surface. In this…

With the recent test firing a failure for the most  part, and with the donation of a humble PVC endcap, the vortex ring cannon’s combustion chamber has been totally re-thought for simplicity and reliability. A stationary gas inlet now creates its own vortex while feeding in, creating a better gas mixture that I hope will make a much more predictabe “thump”.     PS – Do not attempt to make…

Well, some mixed results in testing. Due to the amount of safety features, ironically, the device has yet to produce successful combustion in the main chamber. It’s assumed to be a fuel/air mixture problem so far, but I thought I’d share the dissatisfying but driving results.

The vortex ring cannon is almost ready for it’s maiden test firing. After finally getting some tape and assembling a variety of safety mechanisms, the vortex ring cannon project is moving to test firing. If this is successful, it will represent a great leap for mad science enthusiasts. Check it out below! And before everyone says “well, there goes the neighborhood!”, the vortex ring cannon has a variety of safety…

Introducing the latest mad science project, the Vortex Ring Cannon! This device, using the same basic principles as a smoke ring generator (like the kind sold as a novelty during halloween), “shoots” a ring of air using a small combustion chamber.  The device is mostly completed, with only a couple of parts still needing to be acquired. Inside, a combustion chamber with two outer layers for blowout mitigation provides the…

Experiment: To Determine the properties and consistency of Plaster of Paris mixtures Hypothesis: That binding agents added to the plaster of paris mixture will strengthen the resulting hardened mixture in terms of tensile strength and compressive forces. Experimental steps: 1. Measure out and record an amount of plaster of paris in the powdered form 2. Add a pre-determined percentage of an additive or adulterant, or an equal weight of plaster…

As any curator or collector knows, the bodily oils and dirt accumulated from handling can quickly turn a good quality bone specimen into an ugly duckling, or worse, destroy delicate sections or tissue.  If you intend on the bone or specimen being handled frequently, it is highly recommended that you seal it to prevent further corrosion and damage, generally by way of sealant. These instructions assume you have thoroughly cleaned…