11.

2 Looking at vibrations

Questions
1 a If a guitar string vibrates 250 times each second, what is its frequency?
b If a drum skin vibrates with a frequency of 100 Hz, how many times
does it move up and down each second?
2 If a bird flaps its wings up and down 50 times in 20 s, what is the frequency
of its flapping?

Activity 11.2
Studying vibrations
SE You are going to investigate the vibrations of a ruler which has been clamped
at one end. Firstly, you will need to decide how to measure the frequency of
its vibrations. Discuss your ideas with your partners and then share your best
idea with the rest of the class.
Secondly, choose a question to investigate. Write a plan and check it with
your teacher before you start.
How will the frequency of the vibrations change if you make the ruler
longer or shorter?
How will the frequency of the vibrations change if you make the ruler
vibrate up and down with a greater amplitude?
How will the frequency of the vibrations change if you change the weight
attached to its end?
You may be able to think of a question of your own to investigate. Before you
carry out your investigation, write a prediction: what do you think you will
find? Give a reason to support your prediction.

Summary

11 Sound 139