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demonstrations:3_oscillations_and_waves:mechanical_waves:standing_wave_machine:start

Standing Wave Machine

Description

An unusual-looking device. Two DC motors on the end of plastic arms are connected to a center piece with a 3-color LED strobe light and a dials and buttons to control it. A length of string is connected between the two motors.

Purpose

This can be used to demonstrate the appearance of standing waves in a string. Specifically, the sort of standing waves that are formed by the spinning of a string. This can also be used to show how strobe lights can shed light on rapidly-changing-but-periodic systems.

Apparatus

  • Handheld standing wave machine

Setup

This demo is capable of showing anywhere from a half wavelength to two wavelengths by adjusting the motor speed and motor separation in 'Manual' mode. If the 'Demo' mode is selected, it will put on an impressive light display and go through varying strobe light frequencies and motor speeds.

Notes

The device can be folded up like this for easier storage and transport.

What the device looks like in full light, against a dark background.

Demo room information

Location —-
Maker Unknown
Current State Working
demonstrations/3_oscillations_and_waves/mechanical_waves/standing_wave_machine/start.txt · Last modified: 2020/01/07 20:16 by demoroom