Purpose: The purpose of this lab is to describe the characteristics of transverse waves and longitudinal waves as they travel through a medium (air).

Hypothesis: If the direction of the wave moving through the medium is perpendicular to the motion, then it is a transverse wave, but if the movement is parallel to the motion, then it is longitudinal because the type of wave depends on the direction of movement.

Variables:

IV: Type of Wave (transverse or longitudinal)

DV: Properties of wave (wavelength, frequency, amplitude)

Materials Per Group

●     Meter stick

●     Nylon string, 10 cm

●     Wave motion rope, optional

●     Recording device, optional

●     Scientific calculator

●     Spring toy

●     Timer

●     Masking tape

Safety:  Please take care and do not suddenly release a stretched spring toy. Springs can snap back rapidly, which may cause injury to yourself and others or cause damage to the spring toy. Remember to wear safety glasses throughout the lab. Be sure to follow all laboratory safety guidelines and all safety procedures provided by your teacher.