The Lever Paradox
When discussing levers, Archimedes said: "Equal weights at unequal distances are not at equilibrium." unfortunately, Archimedes never saw our Lever Paradox, where equal weights at unequal distances do balance!
Do you understand levers? You might think you do, but many people are fooled by this clever device. We discovered this while scouring through some very old books on mechanical systems. The Lever Paradox will always balance as long as equal weights are placed on each side, regardless of their distance from the center.
Except, that's not supposed to be possible.
Some folks will know right away just by looking at the photos, but for the rest of us, this model offers a tactile, physical demonstration of the principles involved. The instructions describe experiments to perform, and provide short lessons in leverage, equilibrium, torque and linkages. Math and equations are included, simple enough even for middle-schoolers and most parents too!
It's a wonderful little demonstration of physical science, helps develop mechanical skills and simple woodworking. The only tools you'll need are a pair of scissors and a ruler, rubber bands are useful to hold parts together while the glue dries, and a little sandpaper might be nice if you intend to build this as a display model (although we didn't sand any of the kits in these photos.)
Made from top-quality USA manufactured solid oak non-toxic, formaldehyde-free and void-free plywood for a more dimensionally stable, stronger, and less expensive model than if made from natural wood. It takes about one or two hours to construct, plus glue drying time.
Recommended for age six and up.
Tools required:
Scissors, Glue, Ruler, and a utility knife. Sandpaper is optional.
Assembly time:
For a Master carpenter doing a sloppy job: under an hour.
A person with no kit building experience being extremely meticulous: about 2 hours.
The model in these photos was built by Ron Toms in about one hour.
Assembled Size:
- Height: 9"
- Length: 23"
- Depth: 3"
Shipping weight: 2 lbs.
Box dimensions: 12" x 12" x 2"
Quantity pricing info:
0 to 4 kits, standard price.
5 to 9 kits, 10% off
10 or more kits, 15% off
Orders of $200 or more get FREE ground shipping!
For more discount pricing info, please visit www.RLT.com/wholesale
