10 Simple Oscillators
This set of 10 simple oscillators consists of an octagonal mass held on a steel bar that is fixed in a wooden block.
Pupils can comfortably and quickly lock or unlock the steel bar by turning the hex nut and then select the length to use.
The holding block is placed at the edge of a desk and a pupil keeps one hand on it to provide a rock solid fixed point.
Frequency range is set to be comfortable at the longest setting but too difficult at the shortest one to allow for a bit of problem solving (e.g. filming with phones).
This set of 10 simple oscillators consists of an octagonal mass held on a steel bar that is fixed in a wooden block.
Pupils can comfortably and quickly lock or unlock the steel bar by turning the hex nut and then select the length to use.
The holding block is placed at the edge of a desk and a pupil keeps one hand on it to provide a rock solid fixed point.
Frequency range is set to be comfortable at the longest setting but too difficult at the shortest one to allow for a bit of problem solving (e.g. filming with phones).
This set of 10 simple oscillators consists of an octagonal mass held on a steel bar that is fixed in a wooden block.
Pupils can comfortably and quickly lock or unlock the steel bar by turning the hex nut and then select the length to use.
The holding block is placed at the edge of a desk and a pupil keeps one hand on it to provide a rock solid fixed point.
Frequency range is set to be comfortable at the longest setting but too difficult at the shortest one to allow for a bit of problem solving (e.g. filming with phones).
Suggested Uses
The main use is the simplest one, when pupils meet the equations for frequency or Period these provide simple examples that allow for focus on exactly what counts as “an osciallation” or why we should measure larger numbers of them instead of just a few.
Older pupils can revist the idea but extend the challenge by measuring the frequency for a range of lengths and plotting a length vs frequency graph.
It is also possible for pupils to use a set of slotted masses (not included) to investigate the mass vs frequency relationship.
There are two choices for fixing the oscillating mass, a lock nut to prevent tampering or a wingnut to make adjustment easier if it is desired.