STEM Lab: Magnet Wall

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Learn more about Virginia Discovery Museum exhibits by contacting Programs & Gallery Manager Sabrina Collins at sabrina@vadm.org or (434) 977-1025 x105.

Things to Explore
  • Faster or Slower: Change the angle of the ramps to create a steeper or shallower slope. How does this affect the speed of the balls?
  • Gear Up & Gear Down: Combine a small gear and a large gear, then spin one of them. What do you notice about the other gear?
Gravity Ramps

Let’s roll! Move the magnetic pieces around the wall to create dynamic and ever-changing slopes, then send balls down your course as you explore gravity, cause and effect, and simple machines. Speaking of things that go round, combine the magnetic gears in different combinations to see how these toothed wheels transmit force and motion, change the direction of rotation, and increase or decrease speed.

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Photo Policy

By visiting the Museum, you grant permission for any photographs of you and your dependents to be used for educational and promotional purposes. If you do not consent and wish to opt out of this policy, please inquire at the Front Desk or call (434) 977-1025.