Square wheels

How does the exhibit work?

Sit down on the bicycle. Try cycling with the square wheels.

If there is a queue, wait patiently for your turn.

What is the science behind it?

In mathematics, a catenary is a curved line. One that has the shape of a chain that you allow to hang between your hands. Or a chain suspended between two posts.

If you make a road in the form of inverted catenaries one behind another, you can ride on it with square wheels.

Catenaries in igloos

If you cut an igloo in half you will see that it has the shape of an inverted catenary. This shape makes the igloo very sturdy and resistant to high winds.

Incidentally, you’ll find the same curves in the rooms and corridors of the icehotel in Jukkasjärvi in Sweden. The hotel is built entirely of snow and ice. Would you like to sleep there?

Catenaries with Gaudí

Have you ever visited Casa Batlló or Casa Mila in the Spanish city of Barcelona? They were designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. In these buildings you often see the shape of a catenary.

Catenaries in the landscape

A high-voltage line hanging between two masts is a catenary, as well.