Quick Answer:The Maxwell Wheel Model is a 150mm metal wheel on an axle hung from two cords on a 400mm support frame; as it unwinds and rewinds, it shows potential energy changing into rotational kinetic energy and back.
Last updated: 18 October 2026
Key Features
High-density machined metal alloy or brass wheel.
Two high-tensile cords with reinforced mounting points.
Vertical support frame in metal or high-impact polymer.
Used to find the moment of inertia of the wheel.
Technical Specifications
Specification
Value
Wheel
Machined metal alloy or brass, 150mm diameter
Suspension
Two high-tensile cords
Frame
Metal or high-impact polymer, vertical
Support height
400mm
How It Is Used
The cords are wound round the axle to lift the wheel, which is then let go. It falls, spinning faster as it unwinds, and climbs back up as the cords rewind, nearly to its starting height. Timing the fall lets students compare mgh with ½Iω² and estimate the wheel's moment of inertia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can be calculated with the Maxwell Wheel Model?
By timing the fall of the wheel and measuring the drop, students compare the potential energy lost, mgh, with the kinetic energy gained and work out the wheel's moment of inertia.
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