Wave Machine Complete Kit

107.10 each

Wave Machine set to demonstrate the theory of waves

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This Wave Machine is an inexpensive set to demonstrate the theory of waves. It comes with a booklet written by Dr. Cyril Isenberg of Kent University.

The pieces are in kit form that the user must assemble.

Demonstrations with this set are all concerned with mechanical vibrations. However, all waves, mechanical, electromagnetic, water etc. satisfy the same wave equation and consequently have common wave properties. The understanding of mechanical waves can be easily transferred to other non-mechanical waves.

The kit comprises:
1) A transverse wave machine - 80 arms spaced on nylon line with detachable weights. This provides an example of transverse wave propagation in which movements of the rods create the waves. It is visually attractive and easy to use. The machine demonstrates the superimposition of waves, amplitude and decay, stationary waves, nodes and harmonics, reflection, transmission and solitons. The waves are actuated by hand.
2) Two loaded elastic cords - three metres of elastic cord threaded with weights and spacers. These illustrate transverse wave motion and has the advantage that the effects of different wave parameters, such as the mass per unit length, cell size and tension can be compared.
3) An extension spring (like a slinky) with weights. This can be used for the propagation of both longitudinal and transverse waves.
4) A teacher's book which describes the experiments and gives detailed quantitative analysis.

Suitable from Key Stage 3 to university levels of education.