PASCO WA-9611_13 SONOMETER - Manual (Page 20)

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Sonometer 012-03489E
Suggested Research Topics
The following are a few suggestions for further experimentation with the Sonometer.
➀ Obtain two wires of the same linear density (mass per unit length), one that is wound and one that
is not wound (a plain wire). Investigate the effects of the winding on the mathematical relation-
ships of wave propagation.
➁ Use a harmonic analyzer to analyze the effects of placing the Driver Coil at different places along
the wire. Also investigate the effects of placing the Detector Coil at different places along the
wire. You can also investigate the effects of plucking, strumming, and bowing the string.
➂ By devising a method to measure string stretch, you can use this apparatus to investigate the
Hooke's Law relationship for a wire placed under tension. Possible investigations include:
a. Strain versus Stress (Stretch versus Applied Load)
b. Strain versus Diameter of Wire (Constant Stress)
c. Strain versus Type of Wire (Constant Diameter)
➃ Obtain wires made of different materials, but with the same linear density. Investigate the speed
of wave propagation in these wires when the same tension is applied to e ach.