Giant Slinky: Quantitative Exhibit Activity

Document #:: LIGO-T080203-v2
Document type:: T - Technical notes

Other Versions:

LIGO-T080203-x0
06 Apr 2009, 09:49

Abstract:

This activity utilizes the Giant Slinky exhibit to explore wave properties in a quantitative fashion. It is assumed that students doing this activity are fluent in basic algebraic manipulations and pattern recognition. Therefore, this activity is appropriate for high school students. The primary part of this activity explores transverse and longitudinal waves and their properties. This is followed by a standing wave extension activity. Finally, there is an appendix that lists the different exhibits in the LIGO SEC that also illustrate wave phenomena with brief descriptions on how they relate to the Giant Slinky.

Physics Concepts for the Primary Activity:

• Transverse Waves
• Longitudinal Waves
• Velocity
• Wavelength
• Amplitude
• Frequency
• Period
• Compression
• Rarefaction

Physics Concepts for the Extension Activity:

• Constructive Interference
• Destructive Interference
• Nodes
• Antinodes
• Fundamental
• Harmonic

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