At the time I purchased this version of the Radiometer, the Amazon price was $10.95, with free Super-Saver shipping available. I have seen the identical model retailing in science gift shops and catalogs for $12.95 to $15.95, so I was quite happy with the Amazon price.The device is sturdily constructed, for what it is. Keep in mind, this is a thin glass bulb similar to a light bulb; it will shatter when dropped. The rotating vanes inside, while intricately crafted, are delicate and not designed to withstand heavy shaking or jarring. It is not a “toy,” particularly not for young children. Rather, it is an interesting scientific novelty, or a “curio,” not intended for frequent handling.The bulb is securely affixed to the black plastic base. I appreciate the “retro” appearance of the base, reminiscent of antique bakelite.
This fascinating little gadget has been around for years. It is the approximate size and shape of a clear, standard incandescent lightbulb, with a base to stand on. Inside, instead of a filament, there is a small structure of four square vanes held atop a sharp needle, allowing the apparatus to spin. The vanes are colored white on one side and black on the other. Through action of direct sunlight, the vanes spin; the brighter and clearer the light, the faster they spin. The physics of it are explained on an insert. No batteries required, just put it on a sunny windowsill and watch it go!This really is a terrific and fascinating demonstration of the power of the sun. No matter that now that I am older I understand the physics of it, it is still a remarkable and awesome thing.
TEDCO Radiometer (Age 8+)At the time I purchased this version of the Radiometer, the Amazon price was $10.95, with free Super-Saver shipping available. I have seen the identical model retailing in science gift shops and catalogs for $12.95 to $15.95, so I was quite happy with the Amazon price.The device is sturdily constructed, for what it is. Keep in mind, this is a thin glass bulb similar to a light bulb; it will shatter when dropped. The rotating vanes inside, while intricately crafted, are delicate and not designed to withstand heavy shaking or jarring. It is not a “toy,” particularly not for young children. Rather, it is an interesting scientific novelty, or a “curio,” not intended for frequent handling.The bulb is securely affixed to the black plastic base. I appreciate the “retro” appearance of the base, reminiscent of antique bakelite.
This fascinating little gadget has been around for years. It is the approximate size and shape of a clear, standard incandescent lightbulb, with a base to stand on. Inside, instead of a filament, there is a small structure of four square vanes held atop a sharp needle, allowing the apparatus to spin. The vanes are colored white on one side and black on the other. Through action of direct sunlight, the vanes spin; the brighter and clearer the light, the faster they spin. The physics of it are explained on an insert. No batteries required, just put it on a sunny windowsill and watch it go!This really is a terrific and fascinating demonstration of the power of the sun. No matter that now that I am older I understand the physics of it, it is still a remarkable and awesome thing.
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