Hooke's Law / Oscillation

Principles Illustrated: coupled oscillation normal modes

Location: Top of Cabinets

Coupled oscillation is a difficult concept to visualize, and virtually demands multiple physical demonstrations for students to understand. The coupled oscillator demonstration includes 2 carts, and a variety of springs. These can be configured in multiple ways to demonstrate important modes of coupled oscillation. In particular, in a 2-cart, 3-spring configuration, using a weak middle spring, one can demonstrate the two distinct modes of oscillation, and the fact that the "together" mode is always lower frequency than the "opposite" mode. In addition, with an initial displacement of only one cart, the "beats" between the two modes are clearly seen, as each cart alternately comes to a stop during its node. Seeing these modes in action is an essential experience for students learning the theoretical analysis of coupled oscillators.

Principles Illustrated: Hooke's Law

Location: Cabinet B, Shelf 5

This apparatus makes it easy to measure the elongation of the spring with different weights...the determination of the spring constant.

Principles Illustrated: Oscillatory Motion

Location: Cabinet B, Shelf 3

The taper of the spring allows for lower-loss harmonic motion. Other springs and a variety of masses are available.

Principles Illustrated: Coupled Oscillations

Location: Cabinet B, Shelf 5

An efficient demonstration of coupled oscillations. Vertical oscillations of the mass are 'transferred' to rotational oscillations and back.