PASCO WA-9857 String Vibrator - Manual (Page 13)

Model No. WA-9857 String Vibrator
13 ®
Experiment 1:
Wave Speed
Introduction
In this experiment you will determine the wave speed in a stretched string using three methods.
First, you will calculate the speed based on the wavelength and frequency of a standing wave in
the string. Next, you will calculate the speed based on the linear density and tension of the string.
Finally, you will measure the time for a single pulse to travel a known distance, and calculate the
speed of the pulse.
Procedure
1. Use rods and clamps to connect the Force Sensor and String Vibrator to the table as shown.
Equipment Required Part Number
String Vibrator WA-9857
Power Supply Part of WA-9857
Elastic Wave Cord (50 cm) Part of WA-9857 (or SE-9409)
Universal Table Clamps (qty. 2) ME-9472 or similar
45 cm Rods (qty. 2) ME-8736 or similar
Force Sensor CI-6746, CI-6537, or PS-2104
Voltage Sensor CI-6503 or PS-2115
Computer Interface(s) and software,
compatible with sensors
Various, see PASCO catalog
Balance SE-8765A or similar
Tape Measure SE-8712A or similar