PURPOSE: To demonstrate transverse traveling or standing
waves.
DESCRIPTION: Clamp the spring to the lecture table and hold the other end with
some tension. Strike the spring sharply with your hand to send a traveling pulse.
If you handle the spring correctly the phase of the pulse upon reflection can be
observed. You can create an inverted reflection or a non-inverted reflection by
leaving the end open or clamped.
Shake the end with various frequencies to illustrate transverse standing waves.
EQUIPMENT: Spring, as photographed.
Updated by Jun Qi in 3/24/2000