Waves and Optics
Measuring Waves Required Practical
To measure wave speed using observations of frequency and wavelength and assess possible measurement errors.

What you will learn

How to measure wavelength and frequency

How to investigate waves in a ripple tank

How to measure waves using a vibrating string

How to calculate wave speed from measurements

How to reduce uncertainty in a wave experiment
Explanation
Measure wavelength across several wave gaps in a ripple tank and divide by their number. Determine frequency from counted oscillations over a timed interval, or use a known signal-generator frequency for a string. Calculate v = fλ; reduce parallax and timing uncertainty and repeat measurements. Tank ripples and string vibrations provide complementary methods. Example: State a string-wave control variable. Tension or mass per unit length when comparing frequency settings. Consider the conditions.
