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Wave speed and density, Pressure – PASCO ME-9825A Matter Model User Manual

Page 10

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Model No. ME-9825A

Matter Model

10

Wave Speed and Density

Each of the atoms is designed to allow an included nut to be inserted.
In this way, students can change the density of the wave medium and
observe the relationship between wave speed and density. This effect
can be investigated for both transverse and longitudinal waves. Use the
configuration suggested in the previous activity for transverse waves.
For a demonstration of longitudinal waves, use the included brass tube,
which fits through the hole in each atom. It is more effective to use the
light springs for a longitudinal wave activity, since the wave speeds
will be lower.

Pressure

With the atoms in a linear configuration and using the provided brass
tube, turning the arrangement vertically is a nice demonstration of
pressure. The lowest atoms must support the weight of all atoms
above. This causes the lower springs to be more compressed, thus the
atoms are closer together.

Figure 10: Demonstration of Pressure