Wave Motion
W.1(1) - LARGE TRANSVERSAL WAVE MACHINE
This model is about 2 m long and 50 cm wide, and provides a good illustration of the characteristics of mechanical waves, such as wavelength, frequency and amplitude. Experiments that can be performed include:
- Origin and propagation of progressive waves
- Wave reflection at free or fixed ends
- Stationary waves
Any disturbance of its rods, creates a transverse wave through the entire structure. The rod's tips are painted yellow fluorescent to increase the visibility of the wave motion.
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W.1(2) - LONGITUDINAL WAVE MACHINE
This apparatus is about 1 m long and it consists of a spiral spring ("slinky") suspended at every two loops by a thin nylon string. The spring is attached to the frame at both ends, one fixed and the other movable, such that small pulses can be sent through the spring. Wave characteristics such as speed, pulse shape, superposition, energy transmission and reflection can be shown.
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W.1(3) - RUBBER ROPE
A long rubber rope is stretched through the length of the lecture table. A motor driven rotor with a bent shaft produces waves on the rope. Standing waves are easily obtained and clearly visible at a distance. The rubber rope can also be clamped just at one side of the lecture table and waves can be produced manually.
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W.1(4) - TUNING FORK WITH STYLUS
A tuning fork mounted on a wooden resonator box is brought close to a hanging pith ball, such that one of its prongs just touches it. This will show the tuning fork vibrating when hit by a hammer since the pith ball will then bounce off its vertical position.
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