Wooden Arc Puzzle

Identifier: M: CM - 007

The wooden arc puzzle rests on the table.

Concept Overview

Visualization and application of forces in circular motion.

Lecturer Procedure

Steps to FollowExpected Result
  1. Get one ball into one hole on one side.
  2. Attempt to get the second ball into the opposite side.
As you attempt to get the second ball into it's hole, the first one rolls out.
  1. Spin the device.
Both balls will move into their holes (as shown in the picture).

Historical References; Taken from original work of Percy H. Carr, 1970 

“Inside at each end of the wooden arc is a well which can hold a ball. The problem is to get one ball in each well. The angles are such that if a ball is rolled into one of the wells, it will roll out when the arc is tilted enough to get the other ball in the other well. The problem is solved by spinning the gadget at a moderate rate (really rather slowly) about a vertical axis through the natural point of contact on the table. Each ball flies out and falls into its respective well."