Chapter 1: Building a Radio from Unlikely Parts

Is there a more iconic image of MacGyver than when he constructs a radio at the episode's start? Here’s a visual representation.

Could you really assemble a radio using components from a snowmobile? The answer is yes. Radios are relatively straightforward to construct. The main challenge lies in creating an amplifier strong enough to boost a voice signal for detection. If the snowmobile is equipped with any kind of radio receiver, all necessary parts could be at hand.

Section 1.1: The Stun Gun and Slot Machine Trick

MacGyver requires a diversion, so he utilizes a stun gun on a slot machine, leading to an unexpected win for a player. Is this feasible? While technically possible, it's improbable. The high voltage from the stun gun produces sparks, which can potentially harm delicate electronic components like tiny transistors found in slot machines. However, these machines are designed to withstand tampering, making it unlikely that this tactic would yield results. Moreover, if MacGyver zaps it externally, the electric current would likely be grounded, bypassing the internal electrical components.

Section 1.2: Hacking an Iris Scanner

To bypass an iris scanner, Jack captures a detailed image of the target's eye. Bozer then prints a fake lens to overlay. Is this method valid? It’s plausible; similar techniques have been successfully executed, as demonstrated with the Samsung Galaxy S8.

Chapter 2: High-Tech Tricks and Techniques

Section 2.1: The Cellphone Stingray Explained

A cellphone stingray mimics a cell tower, tricking phones into connecting to it, thus allowing for data interception. Although the specifics can be complex, the concept is achievable, especially with Jack’s tiny antenna that can approach the target's phone, giving Riley an opportunity to extract vital information.

Section 2.2: Finding Hidden Doors with Magnets

In search of a magnetic switch for a concealed door, MacGyver employs a piece of metal and a magnetic bottle opener. The principle at play involves the alignment of magnetic domains in steel, which can be achieved by rubbing it with a magnet. If the magnetized steel is suspended, it will align with external magnetic fields.

However, in the episode, MacGyver rubs the steel back and forth, whereas a one-way motion would be optimal. Still, the technique should function, although the magnets involved may possess irregular magnetic domains.

Section 2.3: The Vacuum Cleaner as a Climbing Tool

MacGyver's ingenious use of a vacuum cleaner to scale walls is both fascinating and grounded in reality.

The vacuum cleaner operates by creating a low-pressure area as it removes air. When placed over a carpet, it draws air upward, consequently sucking in dirt. By connecting the vacuum to metal covers, a decrease in internal air pressure occurs, allowing atmospheric pressure to push the covers tightly against the glass wall. The resulting force can be substantial.

To illustrate, if the pressure inside the covers is halved, the net force exerted by the atmosphere becomes significant. However, the friction between the cover and the glass is what ultimately prevents MacGyver from falling, emphasizing the importance of the interaction between the two surfaces.

Section 2.4: Shrinking Metal with Electricity

The concept of shrinking metal is not just theoretical; it’s based on real science. By generating an immense electric current rapidly, a significant change in magnetic fields can induce an electric current in metal objects, resulting in their reduction in size.

For this effect to occur, MacGyver constructs a capacitor using two roulette wheels.

In essence, any two metal surfaces can create a capacitor, although a larger surface area with minimal spacing would be optimal for effectiveness. Despite the challenges, the fundamental concept remains sound.

Originally published at http://rhettallain.com on April 5, 2019.