Principle

This experiment demonstrates, particularly clearly, the propagation of sound waves in air and, thereby, the working principle of the eardrum that is caused to oscillate by pressure waves. The movement of the membrane is transferred to the neighbouring air molecules, which in turn transfer it to their respective neighbouring molecules. All of the molecules oscillate around their position of rest, since - just like springs - they are joined by cohesive forces. This leads to pressure variations that propagate through space in the form of a sound wave (pressure wave). If a second drum is held precisely in parallel to the first one, the wave can cause the membrane of the drum to oscillate.

Benefits


Experiment is part of an experiment set with a total of 22 experiments about generation, propagation and perception of sound, oscillations and waves

Particularly appropriate as an experiment for first contact with physics in general

With graphic student worksheets

With detailed instructor information

Optimized for tight schedules, i.e. minimum preparation time required


Tasks

The sound is generated by striking a frame drum or the bottom of a tray vigorously with a striking hammer. The "sound receiver" is a (second) frame drum. Its movement is visualised with the aid of a styrofoamsphere pendulum. Try this method of detection out and try to optimise it.

What you can learn about


Sound waves

Eardrum

Oscillations