Scientific Instrument Society 25th Anniversary Exhibition
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22 Model of a Jet Cart
This jet cart, although unsigned, was probably made by Francis Watkins c.1770.
The model was used to demonstrate the driving force of steam as it was released from the spherical boiler, which was heated by the spirit burner below.
Private Collection, U.K.
The ancient Greek, Hero of Alexandria, invented a version of this instrument, the aeolipile. Water was heated and the expanding steam, pushing against the containing vessel, caused it to rotate; as it has to obey Newton’s third law of motion that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.
P.D.
Objects lent by Anonymous Lender IV, UK:
23. Frictional Electrostatic Generator, by John Newman, London, Early 19th Century
44. 'Gun-Barrel' Theodolite, by Jonathan Sisson, London, c. 1740
49. Electrostatic Cannon, by Thomas Jones, London, Early 19th Century