Lego Watt Balance

Project Title
Lego Watt Balance to Determine Planks Constant

Purpose
While learning about Avogadros number in my Chemistry Class, I was
curious about how the values of the fundamental constants are determined.
Later, I read an article in the MIT Technology review on how this apparatus
known as the watt balance is being used to redefine the value of a kilogram
using planks constant. Keen on experimentally determining the value for
planks constant, I decided to build this watt balance and work backwards to
calculate the value of planks constant based on known masses.

Design
This watt balance operates through the process of electromagnetic induction,
where current flowing through a solenoid generates a magnetic force that
counters the force of gravity. By collecting data regarding voltage, current,
mass, and velocity, the value of Planks constant can be determined

Schematics
Images
Reference
The following project is based on a paper written by L.S. Chao and published
in the American Journal of Physics (Volume 83, Issue 11). The concepts
described in this paper were used as the foundation for constructing this
device. However, I made several modifications to the design so that I can
construct it using the materials available at my High School Lab.

Acknowledgements
I would like to thank my partner, Elisa Silva, who worked with me to build this
device. I would also like to thank my Physics teacher, Mr. Denny LaBarge,
who supplied us with the materials for this devices construction.