Sound Tube Toys: The Importance of Varying Stimuli

by: Thomas O'Brien

Sound is a form of energy created and transmitted as a vibration or mechanical wave that can vary in pitch (frequency) and volume (amplitude). Simple toys can be used to engage interest and to develop and assess the skills of scientific inquiry and the basis of sound science concepts and “big ideas.” This activity features a corrugated plastic Sound Tube swung overhead at various speeds to produce its fundamental note (inversely proportional to tube length) and up to three resonant overtones (at faster speeds). The relationship between tube length and pitch—or frequency—is also explored.

Details

Type Book ChapterPub Date 3/1/2010Stock # PB271X_13

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