Product Summary
First, we will explore qualitatively how string tension, length, and linear density affect the sound of the vibrating string. Then we will take measurements for the following situations:
1. The frequencies of two strings of the same length and tension but different linear densities are compared.
2. The length of the vibrating string is varied and the frequency of the sound is measured with the Wireless Sound Sensor and the relationship between string length and frequency is determined.
3. The tension in the vibrating string is varied and the frequency is measured and the relationship between the string tension and the frequency is determined.
In addition, for a given string tension, the length of a string will be adjusted until each tuning fork in the set causes the string to resonate. The vibrating tuning fork is held against the Sonometer sounding board and when the resonant frequency of the string matches the frequency of the tuning fork, the paper riders on the string will vibrate. The relationship between the frequencies and the length is determined.
Teaching Advantage
- The PASCO Sonometer has a sounding box that makes the sound loud. The frequency can be found with either a tuning fork or a Sound Sensor.
Concepts
- How Frequency Depends on String Tension
- How Frequency Depends on String Length
- How Frequency Depends on String Linear Density
What's Included
Data Collection Software
This product requires PASCO software for data collection and analysis. We recommend the following option(s). For more information on which is right for your classroom, see our Software Comparison: SPARKvue vs. Capstone »
Experiments
Experiment Library
Perform the following experiments and more with the Sound of Vibrating Strings Experiment.
Visit PASCO's Experiment Library to view more activities.
College / Physics
We will explore qualitatively how string tension, length, and linear density affect the sound of the vibrating string. Then we will take measurements for the following situations:
