Mount Holyoke College

Math 125: Seminar on Fractals and Chaos

Toys

The Wildwood Chaotic Pendulum. (Andrews Mfg. Co, 2121 Franklin Blvc, Eugene OR 97403) A pendulum swinging above a base which contains some permanent magnets and an electromagnet which gives a regular "kick" to the pendulum. Indefinite chaotic motion; very convincing. (This is in the display case on the fourth floor of Clapp.)
picture Dolphin Kinetic Art. (Westminister International, 436 Armour Cir NE, Atlanta GA 30309; "Dramatic interior decoration") The frame swings in a regular fashion, driven by an electromagnet, and the fish fly around in chaotic fashion--at least, they are supposed to, but mine seems to settle into periodic motion.
picture Space Ball. One of the first chaotic motion toys. Has the same problem as the flying dolphins.
picture Decision Maker. A pendulum swings above a base upon which up to four magnets (attracting or repelling) can be placed. Where will it come to rest? A real-life model of the magnets and pendulum program in the chaos program.