2B30.25 Crush the Can with Vacuum
Concepts
Air pressure
Overview
Pumping the air out of a steel can enables atmospheric pressure to crush the can.
Details
Equipment
- [1] Can
- [1] Vacuum pump
- [1] Lab stand
- [1] 90-degree clamp
- [1] 3-finger clamp
Classroom Assembly
- Place the can somewhere visible to the class.
- Plug in the pump.
- Turn on the pump to check that it works. Turn it off when done.
- Set up the lab stand and clamps to support the pump tubing.
- Attach the pump to the can.
Script
- Turn on the pump. The resulting vacuum will crush the can.
- Turn off the pump.
Additional Resources
References
- PIRA 2B30.25
Disclaimer
- Don't attempt this at home!
Last revised
- 2022
Technicals
- Some cans may have a metal carrying handle on them. The handle should probably be removed to prevent it from flying off during the experiment.
- The cans are 1 gallon or 1 quart oblong F-style cans with 1-1/4" necks. They were purchased from Wells Can just down the mountain from Burnaby campus, though this size no longer appears in their online catalogue.
Related AV
Related demos
If you have any questions about the demos or notes you would like to add to this page, contact Ricky Chu at ricky_chu AT sfu DOT ca.