plastic conic sections model
Datecirca 1960
Inventory Number2006-1-0011
ClassificationDemonstration Model
Subject
Maker
The W. M. Welch Scientific Company
1880 - 1968
User
I. Bernard Cohen
1914 - 2003
Cultural Region
Place of Origin
Place of Use
Dimensions38 × 19.5 × 19.5 cm (14 15/16 × 7 11/16 × 7 11/16 in.)
Material
DescriptionThe model is based in a clear plastic cone. Inside the cone are three conic sections, each made of a different color of plastic. The yellow conic section is an ellipse, the green conic section is a parabola, and the pink conic section is a hyperbola.
In Collection(s)
Signedprinted in grey on dark pink label in base of cone: W. M. WELCH SCIENTIFIC COMPANY / WELCH / ESTABLISHED 1880 / 1515 SEDGWICK ST., CHICAGO U.S.A.
FunctionThe model is designed to visually demonstrate geometric principles related to cones and conic sections. In particular, the model may seek to suggest how different conic sections can be made by cutting a cone at different angles.
ProvenanceFrom I.B.Cohen's office in the Harvard University History of Science Department.
Walter Balcke
Date: 1955
Accessories: mahogany box with plexiglass lid; pencil; eraser; box of lead; putty ball; cleaning cloth; cardboard instruction card
Object number: 1997-1-1619
Walter Balcke
Date: 1962
Object number: 1997-1-1649
Su Wheatland
Date: dated 1955
Object number: 1998-1-1047
