Disgustoscope

This wonderful instrument of disgust was invented by William Beatty. This experiment is a simplification of the information on his web site, but we recommend that you take a look at the original!

What you need:

• 3 pieces of acrylic mirror (13 cm x 16 cm)
• sticky tape
• ruler
• marker
• sharp scissors

How to do it:

1. Cut three trapeziums out of pieces of acrylic mirror to the dimensions shown in the picture.
2. Stick the three mirrors together along their slanted edges so that you end up with the shape shown in the picture. You’ve got a disgustoscope!
3. Place the small end against a surface and look in the other end. You will see a sphere made of whatever surface you rest it on!
4. Why is this disgusting? Try resting the small end against your arm, or anyone’s arm, especially if it is hairy, then look through the large end!

What’s happening?

A normal kaleidoscope makes beautiful patterns by reflecting beads or coloured paper into symmetrical patterns. The disgustoscope’s angled walls cause the reflections to form a sphere shape.

Try not to block off the light when using your disgustoscope or else you will not be able to see anything!

You can explore a human-sized Kaleidoscope exhibit in Wonderworks.

Disgustoscope
A sight not fit for the faint of heart.

Explore More

Kaleidoscope
You’ve seen small kaleidoscopes, but now it’s time to put yourself in the picture! Step into this three-way mirror and watch how you stretch into infinity in all directions.

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