Wb-1 The Melde' Experiment
Published: Tuesday 14 March 2006 - Updated: Wednesday 30 March 2011
Aim
To demonstrate standing waves on a string.
Apparatus
- Motor with eccentric cam
- Light string 2 meter length
- 100 gm weight
- D.C. Power Pack
- Pulley on stand
- Black backing cloth
- Retort stands
Diagrams
Click on pictures to enlarge.
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Melde Diagram |
Melde 1 |
Melde 2 |
Melde 3 |
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Melde 4 |
Videos
Melde Demonstration |
Description
A light string approximately 2 metres in length is connected to a motor driven eccentric cam. The string passes over a pulley and is attached to a 100 gm. weight. A black cloth may be placed behind the string to aid visibility. As the speed of the motor is increased standing waves are observed. It is possible to obtain 6 or 7 modes and with the aid of a stroboscope the string motion can be frozen for analysis.