11
Does a tin can phone really work?
Paul should hold one tin can and a friend at the third plinth, the other (attached by taut string). Can they have a converstion? [Read more]
cans, communication, string
mumoplinth, August 10, 2009, 1:43 pm
Method
Paul should have two empty cans joined by string that is long enough to reach the 3rd plinth, but no longer, so it can be taut. Paul should throw one can to a friend. The friend should then walk to the third plinth and they should then begin to speak to one another.
Result type: Were Paul and the friend able to have a conversation using the cans?
Estimated minutes taken: 5
Possible during bad weather: yes
Comments and predictions
A microphone could be shoved inside the can on the plinth for other people to hear if it is working.
The difficulty with this experiment could be crowd interference with the person on the ground. If you think that you could deal with that, it could be cool!
What is the better transducer, a tin can or a paper cup?
Other sources of interference:
- pigeons landing on the string
- people hanging their washing out on the line to dry
Will be quite visual and eye-catching though
You must be logged in to post a prediction or leave a comment.
Don't have an account? Register now.
