Abstract
Shows reflection with inversion for transverse and reflection for longitudinal pulses.
Principles Illustrated
Reflection of transverse and longitudinal waves, standing waves, motion of the medium in longitudinal and transverse waves, wave speed.
NCEA & Science Curriculum
PHYS 2.3
Video
Right-click and save as: Longitudinal Pulse (m4v)
Right-click and save as: Transverse Pulse (m4v)
Instructions
A single sharp motion perpendicular to the spring axis will make a transverse pulse. Gathering together a few loops of the spring against one end and releasing makes a fairly sharp longitudinal pulse. Non-idealities such as mixing of transverse and longitudinal modes is apparent for larger amplitude waves.
Safety
Individual teachers are responsible for safety in their own classes. Even familiar demonstrations should be practised and safety-checked by individual teachers before they are used in a classroom.
Related Resources
- Slinky Waves
- Wave Simulator Machine
- Wave Simulator Software
Teaching Resources
Would you like to contribute lesson suggestions? Contact us.
References
PIRA 3B20.10
Credits
This teaching resource was developed with support from
The MacDiarmid Institute
Faculty of Science, Victoria University of Wellington
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington