Name:______________________________________________________________________________

Exploring Standing Waves with Physics Classroom Interactive

Instructions: READ BEFORE DOING THE INTERACTIVE!!

1. Go to the Physics Classroom Interactive Standing Wave Maker at

https://www.physicsclassroom.com/Physics-Interactives/Waves-and-Sound/Standing-Wave-
Patterns
2. Launch the Interactive for “Standing Waver Maker”

3. Click the small arrow/hot spot on top left corner to open full screen
3. Keep the setting on Start Node.
4. The only setting you will change is FREQUENCY.
5. Use the frequency slider to form the harmonic patterns in the data table. *Note the waves will
display antinodes on both ends. Fine tune the frequency until the antinodes at are the same size
as shown below. **The 2 antinodes at ends = one complete wavelength. The harmonic for the
wave below is 2nd harmonic.

6. The wave motion can be viewed in slow motion, real time, fast motion and paused
7. View the wave in each motion setting.
8. Slow the wave down as each harmonic pattern is formed. Pause to be sure the correct harmonic
has been achieved. Pause when the green line is at the rest position
9. Record the frequencies and velocity for each harmonic in the data table. *Remember you are
only changing frequency in each trial.
10. Calculate the wavelength using the wave equation 𝑣 = 𝑓 × 
Name:______________________________________________________________________________

Exploring Standing Waves with Physics Classroom Interactive

Data Table:

Harmonic Diagram of Harmonic Frequency (hz) Velocity (cm) Calculated

Wavelength (cm)

Conclusion:

1. Calculate the wavelength for each harmonic 𝑣 = 𝑓 ×  and record the calculated
wavelength values into the data table. Show KUESS for two calculations.

2. Looking at the data table, what happens to the wavelength as frequency increases.

3. Why does the number of antinodes increase as frequency increases?

4. According to your data, what is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?

5. What variable remained constant for this wave motion?

6. What would be the frequency of the 12th harmonic of this standing wave?

7. What is the period of the 3rd harmonic of this wave? Show KUESS

8. Which harmonic is the fundamental frequency?