Key benefits Provides a clear, hands-on demonstration of object motion on a vertical circular path, ideal for intermediate physics instruction and lab exercises. Lets students and instructors observe how starting height affects whether a ball completes a loop or leaves the rail near the top, reinforcing experimental understanding of motion on curved paths. Durable, reusable setup that supports repeated trials and controlled variations of starting conditions. What’s included Base frame for stable desk or tabletop mounting Round rail (circular loop) and inclined rail sections Steel balls Plastic magazines and ball bags for storage and collection Function and performance Designed to show the motion of a steel ball rolling down an inclined track into a vertical circular rail and then continuing to a collecting track and bag. Allows repeated runs while gradually lowering the starting height to demonstrate the threshold at which the ball no longer reaches the top of the loop and instead departs the rail on an oblique upward trajectory. Visualizes the transition between successful loop completion and the point where the ball deviates from the rail and follows a curved, projectile-like path. Materials and compatibility Moving parts: steel balls for consistent rolling behavior Structural components: round rail and base frame designed to sit on a desk or table Accessories: plastic magazines and ball bags for handling and storage Intended for desktop/laboratory setups; no special infrastructure required beyond a level working surface Typical applications Classroom demonstrations in intermediate-level physics courses to illustrate dynamics of circular motion and related experimental concepts Laboratory exercises where students test hypotheses about starting height and loop completion through repeatable trials Student practice and small-group experiments to develop measurement and observational skills Usage notes Place the rail and base on a level desk or table, align the base, and position a steel ball at the highest point of the inclined rail to start a run. Observe whether the ball completes the vertical loop and continues along the collecting track into the bag, or whether it departs the rail near the top and follows a curved path. Repeat runs while varying the starting height to identify the critical height that separates successful loop completion from departure. Practical advantages Simple, straightforward setup and operation for classroom pacing Enables controlled, repeatable experiments to compare outcomes across multiple trials Includes storage accessories (plastic magazines, ball bags) to keep components organized between sessions Safety and handling Use on a stable, level surface and handle steel balls carefully to avoid pinching or impact injuries. Store small parts in the provided magazines and bags when not in use.