8 part 2 - Waves in a solid

• Measuring the wavelength, frequency and speed of waves in a solid:

  1. Measure the wavelength of the standing wave by using a ruler
  2. Measure the total length from the wooden bridge to the vibration generator
  3. Read the frequency from the signal generator
  4. Use the wave speed equation in order to calculate the wave speed

  
• Measuring the wavelength, frequency and speed of waves in a solid - Explanation + Apparatus:

  • We have a string with one end attached to a vibration generator
  • At the other end of the string, we have a hanging mass
  • The vibration generator is attached to a signal generator
  • The signal generator allows us to change the frequency of vibration of the string
  • When we turn on the power, the string vibrates
  • It's very hard to see the vibrations, however at a certain frequency we can get a 'standing wave' due to an effect called resonance

  
• Image of apparatus:

  A) pulley on clamp

  B) wooden bridge

  C) string

  D) vibration generator

  E) to signal generator

  F) mass