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Crookes Radiometer - Solar Mill
Item #: RADIOMETER
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The sun’s power makes this device operate and spin. The Crookes radiometer. This device is also familiar and commonly known as a light mill or solar engine. It consists of an airtight glass bulb, enclosed in a partial vacuum.
Inside are a set of vanes which are mounted on a spindle. The vanes rotate when exposed to light, with faster rotation for more intense light, providing a quantitative measurement of electromagnetic radiation intensity. The reason for the rotation has been the cause of much scientific wonder.
Measures W:3.5" H:4.72" D:3.54" |
It was invented by the scientist William Crookes during his research. With is pursuit of very precise quantitative chemical investigation, he weighed samples in a partially evacuated chamber to reduce the effect of air flow, and observed minuscule discrepancies in weight were created when sunlight shone on the balance. Investigating this effect, he created this unique device.