WAVES - WAVE MOTION

W.1 (1) - Large Transversal Wave Machine

W.1 (2) - Longitudinal Wave Machine

W.1 (3) - Rubber Rope

W.1 (4) - Tuning Fork with Stylus


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:

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. The Undergraduate Labs have a better model with 3 different wideness sections and a mechanical driver powered by a function generator. To borrow it , we need to check their lab schedule disposability. This apparatus is part of one of the experiments performed by the 125L labs.


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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 streched through the lenght of the lecture table. A motor driven rotar with a bent shaft produces waves on the rope. Standing waves are easily obtained and clearly visible at a distance. The rubber rope (or any other rubber hose) can also be clamped just at one side of the lecture table and waves 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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