Moss The Daily News always has some rather interesting and quirky stuff for sale.
Today’s no exception but I thought it’s just too cool to ignore… (or maybe cos I’m a geek).
The Radiometer, Light Mill, was invented by chemist Sir William Crookes in 1873.
Radiometers consist of an airtight glass bulb containing a partial vacuum, inside of which a set of vanes are mounted on a spindle.
These vanes will rotate when exposed to light, faster rotation for more intense light, providing a quantitative measurement of electromagnetic radiation intensity.
Although there have been many theories proposed as to the reason why the vanes turn when heated (or cooled) it is still unclear to scientists exactly what forces are involved.
I personally think it’s due to light consisting of energy hitting on the vanes.
It’s at a relatively affordable $125 – and for the intriuged faces on you visitors – I think the price is well justified.
Enjoy! =))
[...] Radiometer [...]