Please note: To use the Sound Level, Sound Sensor, and Scope Mode for GLX's with firmware versions earlier than version 1.10 (see GLX splash screen), upgrade the GLX with the latest firmware.

 

In this experiment, students determine the frequency and wavelength of sound waves that they create.

• Microsoft Word version of this lab:
  (Zip file | Stuffit file)

• Xplorer GLX (PS-2002)
• Tuning Fork Set (SE-7342) - optional
• Chime Set (SE-9081) - optional
• Slide Whistle (SE-8686) - optional

1. Press the Start button on the GLX.


2. Hum into the built-in microphone of the GLX (near the bottom).


3. Press the Stop button on the GLX.

1. Press F1 to Auto Scale the graph.


2. Press F3 and use the arrow and check buttons to select the Delta Tool.



3. Use the arrow buttons to determine the period of the sound. Enter the value into the Analysis Table.


4. Calculate the frequency and wavelength of the sound and enter these values into the Analysis Table.


5. Repeat the Data Collection Procedure and the Analysis Steps from above for the remaining items in the Analysis Table.

Analysis Table:

	Period (s)	Frequency (Hz)	Wavelength (m)
Person 1 Hum
Person 2 Hum
Person 1 Whistle
Person 2 Whistle
Tuning Fork #1
Tuning Fork #2
Chime #1
Chime #2
Instrument #1
Instrument #2

• Describe and explain the differences between the wave patterns produced by people and by instruments.

1. Return to the main menu by pressing the "Home" button.


2. Using the arrow and check buttons navigate and select the "Output" icon.




3. Using the arrow and check buttons navigate to one of the "Freq." selections.


4. Adjust the frequency to one of your frequencies from the Analysis Data Table.


5. Repeat for other frequencies.

• Describe and explain the physical and sound quality differences between the frequency you generated and the one generated by the GLX.