Backstage Science

By Josh Howgego2013-05-01T00:00:00

Metal ball and feather falling experiment

Source: Backstage science

Web watch - Josh Howgego investigates videos of enormous machines

I still remember the first time someone tried to convince me that a feather and a heavy metal weight would fall at the same speed if it wasn't for air resistance. But I clearly remember I was having none of it: 'No Mr Shoesmith,' I explained earnestly. 'The feather is lighter than the lead ball, you see.'

When I flicked through my browser to the Backstage Science website this week I had of course accepted the reality that a hammer and a feather dropped at the same time on the moon would fall at the same speed. But I had never actually seen proof with my own eyes.

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