Lab Phet: Wave on a String Name:_____________________________

1. Go to the website phet.colorado.edu and open the lab called Wave on a String spend a few minutes exploring
all the fun things it can do.
2. Then to complete the table below, be sure to choose NO END, OSCILLATE, DAMPING ON ZERO AND TENSION
ON HIGH.
3. Check the ruler box and the timer box. You can move the rulers around. You can push the pause button to stop
the wave to measure the wavelength and use the step button to move wave forward slowly. Stepping will allow
you to measure the time it takes for one wavelength to pass a given location. Be sure to measure the
wavelength and amplitude. You should use the 10 different frequencies from the chart below, measure the
corresponding wavelengths with the ruler and calculate the wave speed. Pay attention to the units. ( The units
in the timer box are in seconds and can measure to the hundredths)

Frequency = 1 / period wave speed = frequency X wavelength

A B C D E F
Given Amplitude ( Period is the Frequency Wavelength Wave speed
Frequency cm) time for one ( Hertz) Calculate ( centimeters) ( centimeters
Measure this wavelength this with the /second)
with the ruler. ( seconds) formula above. Calculate this with
Do not record it Measure this DO not record it Measure this the formula
from the green with the timer from the green with the ruler. above.
table. box. table
15
25
35
45
50
65
75
85
95
100
Questions.

1. What type of wave is represented?

2. Does the amplitude affect the frequency or wavelength?

3. Does the amplitude affect the wave speed?

4. Does the tension affect the wave speed?

5. What does the damping effect do to the waves energy?